Report: Heigl leaving 'Grey's Anatomy'

LOS ANGELES, March 12 (UPI) -- Emmy-winning actress Katherine Heigl is preparing to leave the U.S. television drama "Grey's Anatomy" after six years, sources told EW.com.

Heigl has taken numerous breaks from shooting the show to work on hit films such as "Knocked Up," "27 Dresses" and "The Ugly Truth." She also recently was out on maternity leave for three months after adopting her baby daughter.

Series sources told EW.com exclusively that "Grey's" creator Shonda Rhimes has agreed to release Heigl from her contract, and ABC Studios and Heigl's representatives are now negotiating her exit.