T.R. Knight Confirms Show Departure

And it's official: After much speculation over the fate of T.R. Knight's character, George O'Malley, on Grey's Anatomy, the actor has confirmed that he will be leaving the medical drama after five seasons.

"Leaving Grey's Anatomy was not an easy decision for me to make. I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to play this character and will miss my fellow cast and crew very much," T.R. says in a statement, thanking fans for their support.

In the season finale, George's life was hanging in the balance after a bus accident, while Katherine Heigl's character, Izzie Stevens, was flatlining after successful brain surgery. However it's believed Katherine will be back.

T.R. had reportedly  been trying to get out of his contract, which had three years left on it, and his role was much diminished this last season.

"He is an incredibly talented actor and a person whose strength of character is admired by all of us," show creator and producer Shonda Rimes says in a statement.

T.R. is said to be looking into stage and film projects for the future.