His exit was announced in last night's episode, Look up, Child, and his last episode will be on May 20th. Williams has been leaning into other ventures recently, directing episodes of Greys and even producing the Oscar winning Two Distant Friends. It's possible his departure stems from a desire to branch into other areas of the industry.

Dr Jackson Avery is also venturing into new areas of life. His character is leaving the hospital so he can run a Foundation that promotes racial equity in medicine.

Williams contract with Greys expires after this year, and while the show has yet to be renewed for an 18th season, it would be absolutely shocking if it wasn't. So, Greys will churn on without Williams, but he'll be sorely missed as the show approaches two decades on air.