Patrick Dempsey Thanks Fans for 10 Years of GREY'S ANATOMY

GREY'S ANATOMY creators shocked fans this week when they killed off one of the show's most beloved characters. Spoiler alert: Don't read if you haven't seen the episode yet!

Dr. Shepherd, played by Patrick Dempsey, died by getting hit by a car in this week's episode. "I want to thank all the fans, what an incredible 11 yrs, I love you all," Patrick Dempsey Tweeted this week.

According to a statement issued by ABC, Dempsey left the show to "pursue other interests". But rumor has it that Rhimes and Dempsey may have butted heads, which also explains Dempsey's frequent absences this season.

Unlike Rhimes, Dempsey was not surprised over his character's fate. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, he described Shepard's death as a 'natural progression' in the story, and felt it was the right time for his exit. He also acknowledged the heartbreak of the fans, stating, "I think any time an original cast member has left, there's always a void that will never be filled. Shepherd is a beloved character. People don't want to lose him. He's been in their lives for over 10 years. But it goes on, and it will evolve."

GREY'S ANATOMY airs Thursdays at 8PM EST on ABC.

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