Shonda Rhimes on Sara Ramirez exiting 'Grey's Anatomy': 'It wasn't a big planned thing'

NEW YORK, May 23 (UPI) -- Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes wasn't aware that Sara Ramirez was exiting the long-running medical drama until after production on Season 12.

"This one was different because it wasn't a big planned thing," Rhimes said Sunday of Ramirez's send-off as Dr. Callie Torres during Vulture Festival in New York City according to Us Weekly.

The writer claimed she only found out about the exit "maybe three days before it was announced" leaving them unable to film a proper goodbye.

"I had a different plan going and when Sara came in and said, 'I really need to take this break,' I was lucky that we'd shot the end of the season with her going to New York," she continued.

During the latest season 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.

"I felt really good that we had shot that ending and that she said she wanted to take this break and we were able to give it to her because I love the woman and I want to do everything for her. It all worked out in that sense," Rhimes explained.

Ramirez announced that she was leaving on Twitter stating, "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, the rest of the cast and crew, and I look forward to always being a part of the Shondaland family!,' referencing Rhimes and lead actress Ellen Pompeo.

When asked how much longer Grey's Anatomy will last, Rhimes said, "I'm always surprised when Ellen [Pompeo] is ready to re-up. Our pact is that we will go together. When she goes, I go."