Ellen Pompeo Opens Up About Patrick Dempsey's 'Grey's Anatomy' Departure

Ellen Pompeo lets out a big laugh while making an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, airing Monday (April 25).

The Grey’s Anatomy star opened up about Patrick Dempsey‘s departure from the show last season.

“And everybody thought because Patrick was leaving that it wouldn’t do well, but it’s doing very well,” host Ellen DeGeneres said, to which Ellen P. responded, “It’s amazing how much you get done without a penis. We miss him dearly, but yeah the show is doing very well.”

“No, it’s not the last season,” Ellen also confirmed. “I think a lot of people were really upset about his departure, which is super understandable. But I think the change is part of the reason why the show goes on so long. I think people tune in to see what is the show look like now. What is Meredith going to do without Derek. I think they get so upset about the change, but change is precisely what everyone always needs to sort of get to the next place.”