Kelly McCreary Leaving 'Grey's Anatomy' After Nine Seasons

Kelly McCreary is saying goodbye to Grey’s Anatomy.

On Friday (March 17), the 41-year-old actress, who plays Dr. Maggie Pierce on the long-running ABC medical drama series, announced that she is leaving the show after nine seasons.

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“After nine seasons, I am saying goodbye to Maggie Pierce and her Grey Sloan family,” Kelly shared in a statement with Entertainment Tonight. “It has been a tremendous honor to be a part of such a legendary television institution as Grey’s Anatomy. I will always be grateful to Shonda Rhimes, Krista Vernoff and ABC for the opportunity, and to the incredible fans for their passionate support.”

She continued, “To spend nine years exploring a character inside and out, while reaching a global audience with impactful stories, is a rare gift. It has afforded me an opportunity to collaborate with, learn from and be inspired by countless brilliant artists both in front of and behind the camera.”

“Playing Maggie Pierce has been one of the true joys of my life and I leave with profound gratitude for every step of this journey,” Kelly concluded. “I am excited for this next chapter, and what the future holds.”

Kelly‘s character Maggie was first introduced to Grey’s fans in the second to last episode of season 10 in 2014. In the season finale, it was revealed that Maggie was the half sister of Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) with Richard Webber (James Pickens Jr.) and Ellis Grey (Kate Burton) as her biological parents.

Kelly was the promoted to a series regular for season 11.

Kelly‘s exit comes after Ellen‘s farewell episode as a series regular on Grey’s Anatomy aired back on February 23.