AceShowbiz - Two cherished cast members are set to depart from the acclaimed ABC medical drama Grey's Anatomy at the conclusion of its 22nd season. Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver, who have been integral parts of the series for years, will both exit the show in the highly anticipated season finale airing Thursday, May 7, at 10 p.m. ET on ABC, with streaming available the following day on Hulu.

As the season progresses, three episodes remain before the finale, scheduled for March 26, April 2, and April 30. Production for the entire 22nd season has already wrapped, setting the stage for these poignant departures that mark a significant moment in the show's history.

Kevin McKidd first joined Grey's Anatomy in its fifth season back in 2008. Beyond his compelling portrayal of Dr. Owen Hunt, McKidd has expanded his influence behind the camera, making his directorial debut in season seven. Over the years, he has directed an impressive total of 48 episodes. Notably, McKidd will also direct his final episode during the season finale, making his departure both in front of and behind the camera a significant milestone.

Kim Raver arrived on the show a year after McKidd, in 2009, initially appearing in a recurring role during season six before being promoted to series regular later that same season. Raver departed the series after three seasons but returned briefly in season 14 in 2017. Since 2018’s season 15, she has been a full-time cast member again. In addition to acting, Raver has directed three episodes throughout the series, showcasing her talents both on screen and behind the scenes.

The timing of their simultaneous exit aligns with their intertwined storylines on Grey's Anatomy. Their characters, Dr. Owen Hunt and Dr. Teddy Altman, share a complex and enduring relationship that dates back to their time together in the Army. Their bond evolved from friendship to romance after Teddy’s return in season 14. The couple married in season 18 and share two children, though they recently separated, finalizing their divorce at the start of this season. Teddy's character is known for surviving multiple life-threatening situations, adding layers to her dramatic journey on the show.

Despite their departure, the show's creator, Shonda Rhimes, has hinted at a positive resolution for the duo’s story. In his farewell statement, Kevin McKidd expressed deep gratitude for his time on Grey's Anatomy, emphasizing how playing Dr. Owen Hunt and directing episodes has profoundly shaped his career. He acknowledged the privilege of working with an extraordinary team and thanked Rhimes for her creative vision and support throughout his tenure.

Kim Raver also shared heartfelt reflections on her role as Dr. Teddy Altman, highlighting the special place the character holds in her life. She credited Shonda Rhimes and executive producer Betsy Beers for the opportunity to bring Teddy to life and expressed appreciation for the show's writing team and current showrunner Meg Marinis. Raver also paid tribute to previous showrunners like Krista Vernoff and mentors such as Debbie Allen, who guided her both as an actor and director. She conveyed her gratitude toward the cast, crew, and the dedicated fanbase that has supported the series over the years.

The decision for both actors to leave is rooted in creative choices around their characters' arcs, according to sources from The Hollywood Reporter. After numerous seasons exploring the intricate dynamics between Owen and Teddy, the story has naturally reached a conclusion. However, the producers have left the door open for possible guest appearances or recurring roles in the future, consistent with the show's history of welcoming back former cast members for special storylines.

Shonda Rhimes reflected on the evolution of Owen and Teddy’s relationship, describing it as a journey marked by love, complexity, and resilience. She called their farewell both bittersweet and joyful, emphasizing that the couple will receive the happy ending they deserve. Rhimes praised McKidd and Raver for their exceptional talent and heartfelt performances, which have left a lasting impact on the series both on screen and in their directorial contributions.

"While we will all miss seeing them in the halls of Grey Sloan Memorial each day, I am excited to witness where Kim's and Kevin's journeys will take them in the future," Rhimes added, underscoring the optimistic tone surrounding their departures.

Showrunner Meg Marinis also expressed profound appreciation for the pair, calling them "cherished" members of the Grey's Anatomy family. Marinis highlighted McKidd’s transformation of Owen Hunt from a stoic trauma surgeon and veteran into a devoted husband and father, acknowledging how his character helped anchor the emotional core of the series for viewers worldwide. She also praised his leadership on set and his nearly fifty directing credits.

Regarding Raver, Marinis lauded her twelve seasons of portraying Teddy Altman with fierce authenticity. She described Teddy as a strong female veteran and cardiothoracic surgeon whose story has inspired many, especially women fighting for recognition in demanding fields. Raver’s work behind the camera has been equally commendable, with her directing reflecting the same passion that defines her acting.

Though their storyline concludes this season, Marinis reassured fans that this is not a permanent goodbye. Both actors have contributed immensely to the show's legacy, and their artistry and memories will continue to resonate. The production team looks forward to following their future endeavors and cheering them on beyond the halls of Grey Sloan Memorial.

As the 22nd season progresses towards its finale, fans of Grey's Anatomy can anticipate a meaningful sendoff for two of the show’s most beloved characters. The departure of Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of new chapters for both actors and the series itself.