Sara Ramirez exits 'Grey's Anatomy' after 10 years: 'I'm taking some welcome time off'

LOS ANGELES, May 20 (UPI) -- Sara Ramirez has taken to social media to announce her departure from ABC's hit medical drama Grey's Anatomy.

"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," the actress who portrays Dr. Callie Torres on the series wrote in a statement posted to Twitter Thursday.

"Shonda's been so incredible to work for, and we will definitely continue our conversations! I send my love to Ellen, the rest of the cast and crew, and I look forward to always being a part of the Shondaland family!" she continued referencing creator Shonda Rhimes and lead actress Ellen Pompeo.

Rhimes also released a statement on Twitter noting, "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."

During Thursday's finale of Grey's Anatomy, Ramirez's character Dr. Callie had reached a custody agreement with her ex-wife Arizona (Jessica Capshaw) in order to allow her to visit their daughter Sofia.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Ramirez's exit comes as the rest of the principal cast, Pompeo, Chandra Wilson, Justin Chambers, James Pickens Jr., and Kevin McKidd are renegotiating their contracts.

Grey's Anatomy will return this fall on ABC.