Debbie Allen Talks About The Departure Of Jessica Capshaw And Sarah Drew From Grey’s Anatomy

Back in March, fans of Grey’s Anatomy were hit with some bittersweet news. Two beloved characters, Dr. Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw) and Dr. April Kepner (Sarah Drew), were set to leave the long-running medical drama after Season 14. In a recent exclusive interview with Closer Weekly, executive producer and star Debbie Allen opened up about the actresses' departures, sharing her heartfelt thoughts on the changes in store for the show.

Debbie Allen Shares Her Thoughts on Saying Goodbye

Debbie Allen, who has become an integral part of the Grey’s Anatomy family, expressed her feelings about the actresses leaving the show. “You can never replace people. That’s just not what happens. I love both of them deeply. They’ve given so much to this show, and they’ve built unforgettable characters. It’s not easy to let them go, but this was a creative decision that had to be made. It’s not unusual for a show to evolve, especially one that’s been running as long as Grey’s Anatomy,” Debbie shared during a promotional event for her new film, An Hour With Her.

Exciting New Ventures Await

Debbie also took a moment to celebrate Sarah Drew's upcoming role in the reboot of Cagney & Lacey. "It’s like when one chapter closes, a whole new book opens. That's exactly what's happening for both of them. They're incredibly talented, and we will always cherish their contributions to Grey’s Anatomy. But now it's time for them to spread their wings and shine in new directions," Debbie said with pride. During her interview with Closer Weekly, Debbie, a veteran of the entertainment industry, also reflected on the potential future of Grey’s Anatomy.

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The Future of Grey’s Anatomy Looks Bright

When asked about the possibility of the show ending, Debbie was optimistic. “Right now, I don’t see an end in sight. The momentum of this show is incredible, and our audience is more dedicated than ever. It’s a global phenomenon, and the storytelling has never been stronger. That’s the heart and soul of Grey’s Anatomy, and it’s what keeps us going,” she enthusiastically shared. Fans can look forward to the rest of Season 14, with new episodes airing Thursdays at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.

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