I’m Sorry Ladies…McSteamy Eric Dane Is Leaving “Grey’s Anatomy”

ad news to report today for all you “Grey’s Anatomy” lovers out there: McSteamy has fogged up your television screens for the last time.

According to  TV Line, Eric Dane, who plays Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan, has announced he is leaving “Grey’s Anatomy.”  The actor confirmed the news in a statement:

“I am extremely grateful to everyone at ‘Grey’s,’ ABC and Shondaland for the experience and memories I have had over the course of this run…It has been wonderful to work alongside and learn from a creative force such as Shonda Rhimes.”

According to Rhimes, who is the current showrunner, the decision didn’t come easy for either of them:

“After much consideration and conversations, he and I have decided that this is the right time for his storyline to end…We’re a big family here at ‘Grey’s’ with a long history together and Eric will always remain an important part of our family.”

But don’t worry, you angry females out there…Dr. Sloan did not die in the Season 8 finale’s plane crash.  In fact, Dane will likely return briefly for Season 9 for a full character farewell.

“Grey’s Anatomy” will return for Season 9 on Sept. 27 on ABC.