Sara Ramirez joins 'Madam Secretary' after 'Grey's Anatomy' exit

Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Grey's Anatomy alum Sara Ramirez will return to television on the CBS series Madam Secretary.

The 42-year-old actress confirmed in an Instagram post Tuesday that she will play Kat Sandoval in Season 4 of the political drama.

"Can't wait for you to meet Kat on Nov. 19! #KatSandoval @madamsecretarycbs #CBS," she captioned a photo of herself in character.

Entertainment Weekly reported Ramirez's character is "a brilliant political strategist" who rejoins the State Department at Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord's urging (Tea Leoni).

"We're very excited that Sara is joining the cast," series creator Barbara Hall said. "She brings a fresh perspective and a fun, energetic quality to the State Department staff."

Executive producer Lori McCreary added, "We are thrilled to have Sara join the Madam Secretary State Department team. From the moment she walked on set with her talent, intellect, and spirit, she became part of the family!"

Ramirez's casting follows news original cast member Bebe Neuwirth has left the show after more than three seasons as Nadine Tolliver.

"So grateful for my time @MadamSecretary - a wonderful show where I love the cast, crew, background artists #lifelongfriends," the 58-year-old actress tweeted Sunday.

Ramirez announced her departure from Grey's Anatomy in May 2016 after 12 seasons as Dr. Callie Torres. She is also known for voicing Queen Miranda on the animated Disney Chanel series Sofia the First.