Jesse Williams Announces He’s Leaving Grey’s Anatomy After 12 Seasons on the Show

Grey’s Anatomy star Jesse Williams will not return for another season of Grey’s Anatomy.

News broke that his character Jackson Avery will exit the series on Thursday night’s episode, “Look Up Child.” His last episode will air on May 20.

“Jesse Williams is an extraordinary artist and activist. Watching his evolution these past 11 years, both on-screen and off, has been a true gift,” Grey’s Anatomy executive producer/showrunner Krista Vernoff said in a statement to Deadline. “Jesse brings so much heart, such depth of care, and so much intelligence to his work. We will miss Jesse terribly, and we will miss Jackson Avery — played to perfection for so many years.”

Williams’ career has gone beyond acting. He’s directed Grey’s Anatomy episodes, as well as Rebel episodes. His recent producer work includes work on Two Distant Strangers, which won an Oscar for a live-action film in April.

“I will forever be grateful for the boundless opportunities provided me by Shonda, the network, studio, fellow castmates, our incredible crew, Krista, Ellen and Debbie,” Williams said in a statement obtained by USA TODAY Friday, referring to creator Shonda Rhimes, showrunner Krista Vernoff, and co-stars Ellen Pompeo and Debbie Allen.

“As an actor, director and person, I have been obscenely lucky to learn so much from so many, and I thank our beautiful fans, who breathe so much energy and appreciation into our shared worlds,” continued Williams.

“The experience and endurance born of creating nearly 300 hours of leading global television is a gift I’ll carry always. I am immensely proud of our work, our impact, and to be moving forward with so many tools, opportunities, allies, and dear friends.”