Grey's Anatomy boss sets record straight on two actors leaving midway through season 21

Meg Marinis, who is the showrunner for the popular medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has addressed the departure of two of the show’s stars during season 21. While fans have been aware of the fact these two cast members would be bidding farewell for quite some time, it’s the first time the Grey’s boss has spoken out about the exits.

In new interviews released after the season 21 premiere on ABC yesterday, Meg spoke about the long-running series and various shifts within the cast.

It comes after it was announced that Jake Borelli and Midori Francis, who play Levi and Yasuda, would be leaving during the season.

The pair may still be on the show at the moment, but their storylines are expected to be wrapped in the next few episodes, leaving fans wondering how it will all end for them.

Previous reports have stated that Francis’ exit had been “amicable”, with the actress looking to branch out for “the next step of her career”, having signed with WME earlier this year.

Meanwhile, reports suggested Borelli’s departure may not have been up to the actor, who has been on the show since season 14.

Speaking in a new interview with Deadline, Marinis said: “While I can’t speak to either of their storylines this season because of spoilers, what I can say is that I’m really happy with the way we’re honouring the characters we’ve built over the years this season.

“Jake and Midori are fantastic actors and will always be part of the Grey’s Anatomy family.

“And because of the longevity and power of this show, we all know - if you’re part of the Grey’s family, you’re always part of the family and possibly can come and go through the years.”

She then went on to tell The Wrap in a similar interview: “I don’t want to share anything particular about their upcoming storylines for spoiler purposes, but what I can say is that these characters are rich, stellar characters, and they will not get an exit that’s not deserving of their character.

“We’re going to honour where they started and where they are now. Also, they’re important members of our Grey’s family.

“Once you’re family, you’re always family. We’ve seen in 21 years that people can come and go here.”

Grey’s Anatomy season 21 premiered yesterday on ABC and is available to stream on Disney+.