McSteamy Bids Farewell To Grey’s Anatomy

After years of making us swoon on the small screen Eric Dane (AKA "McSteamy") will leave his role as Dr. Mark Sloane on the popular long-running series "Grey's Anatomy." He's been a cast member for six seasons.

"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." He said regarding his departure. "It has been wonderful to work alongside and learn from a creative force such as Shonda Rhimes."

According to show creator, Shonda Rhimes, the hunky actor struggled with the decision.

"After much consideration and conversations, he and I have decided that this is the right time for his storyline to end," she told TVLine. "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."

Expect to see Dane for a few episodes next season. Although his character was in a plane crash in last season's finale, he is expected to survive and will be given a veteran's goodbye.

Wife Rebecca Gayheart must be thrilled at the prospect of having her husband home. The couple who married in 2004 have two children together, Billie and Georgia.

Gayheart has taken a few years off to focus on her family but is poised to return to the big screen next year in the wedding comedy, "For Better Or For Worse."