TV & Movies
A Major Grey’s Anatomy Star Is Reportedly Leaving The Show
He joined the medical drama in Season 14.
Grey’s Anatomy is reportedly losing one of its biggest stars. Per Deadline, Jake Borelli is leaving the hit medical drama after seven seasons, during which he played the fan-favorite character Levi Schmitt. Sources claimed to the outlet that Borelli is in talks to return for a few episodes in the forthcoming Season 21 to close out Levi’s story.
ABC is yet to confirm reports of his departure, which coincided with the actor’s birthday on May 13.
Borelli joined the cast of Grey’s Anatomy in Season 14 in a recurring capacity. By Season 16, his character was promoted to the main cast. One of his major storylines came in Season 15, when his character came out as LGBTQ+ and began a relationship with Dr. Nico Kim (Alex Landi) — the first gay male character featured in the drama.
After Nico and Levi’s first kiss aired in 2018, Borelli also came out. “As a gay guy myself, tonight’s episode was so special to me,” he wrote on Instagram. “This is exactly the kind of story I craved as a young gay kid growing up. ... It blows my mind that I’m able to bring life to Dr. Levi Schmitt as he begins to grapple with his own sexuality.”
The Future Of Grey’s
In April 2024, ABC announced that Grey’s Anatomy will return for Season 21 later this year, securing its position as the longest-running primetime medical drama in TV history.
“The loyalty and love of Grey’s Anatomy fans has propelled us into a historic 21st season, and I could not be more grateful,” series creator Shonda Rhimes told The Hollywood Reporter.
Borelli’s reported departure might not be the only cast shake-up ahead of Season 21. According to Deadline, cast members such as Chandra Wilson, James Pickens Jr., Kevin McKidd, Kim Raver, Caterina Scorsone, and Camilla Luddington will see their Grey’s contracts expire before the next series.
It’s also unclear if the show’s titular character, Dr. Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo), will be back for Season 21 in any capacity. She stepped back from a full-time role at the end of Season 19.
