Here's How 'Grey's Anatomy' Addressed Alex Karev's Absence in Midseason Premiere After Justin Chambers' Exit

Dr. Alex Karev has officially left Grey-Sloan Memorial Hospital.

Earlier this month, Justin Chambers announced that he was leaving Grey’s Anatomy after 15 years.

It was also revealed that the 49-year-old actor’s final episode was on November 14, when Dr. Karev returned home to care for his sick mother. However, there was no dramatic send-off for his character, as is usually customary for Grey’s Anatomy.

During the Grey’s midseason premiere on Thursday (January 23), the characters briefly addressed Karev’s absence.

Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) visited Alex’s wife Jo Wilson Karev (Camilla Luddington) at their apartment and noticed that Alex wasn’t there.

“He’s visiting his mom,” Jo explained.

You can read Ellen‘s reaction to Justin‘s exit here.

READ MORE: Justin Chambers Speaks Out About ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Exit