Eric Dane appears to be next to leave ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

Eric Dane looks to be the latest major actor set to depart ABC’s aging “Grey’s Anatomy” during the show’s eighth season.

According to a statement that series creator Shonda Rhimes sent to TVLine, Dane “did not come to this decision lightly, but after much consideration and conversations, he and I have decided that this is the right time for his storyline to end.”

Dane, who plays Dr. Mark Sloan, a.k.a. McSteamy, sent his own statement, saying, “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.”

Dane’s character isn’t the only major cast member to leave the show. At the end of last season, cast members Kim Raver and Chyler Leigh both departed.

ALSO:

Jonathan Rhys Meyers will be Dracula on NBC

Sherman Hemsley strutted into TV history as George Jefferson

“Modern Family” cast sues: What will it mean for the hit sitcom?

Join Patrick Kevin Day on Google+ or Twitter. Email: [email protected]

PHOTOS, VIDEO AND MORE:

PHOTOS: Behind the scenes and the Emmys Round Table