Ramirez, who plays Dr. Callie Torres, posted on Twitter May 19, “I’m deeply grateful to have spent the last 10 years with my family at Grey’s Anatomy and ABC, but for now, I’m taking some welcome time off. Shonda’s been so incredible to work for and we will definitely continue our conversations! I send my love to Ellen [Pompeo], the rest of the cast and crew, and I look forward to always being a part of the Shondaland family!”

Series creator Shonda Rhimes added, “Dr. Callie Torres came into our lives dancing it out in her underwear almost a decade ago and I could not be happier or more proud of her journey. Sara Ramirez’s performance inspired me as well as millions of fans each week. We wish her the best on her well-deserved time off. I will miss Callie tremendously, but am excited for what the future holds for Sara. She will always have a home at Shondaland.”

There is a possibility Ramirez may, at some point, return to the series, which just concluded its 12th season.

Ramirez has also been seen on Broadway in The Capeman, The Gershwins' Fascinating Rhythm and A Class Act.