Grey’s Anatomy planning an ‘impactful and important’ storyline about mental health

Grey's Anatomy is planning an "impactful and important" storyline about mental health.

TVLine spoke to showrunner Krista Vernoff about the upcoming plotline, which she described as "really painful" - but also “beautiful and impactful and important.” And while she declined to specify which one of the characters would be the focus of the plotline (or if it would centre on one of them or on many), she did say that Maggie - played by Kelly McCreary - would be "in a very dark place" when the series returns from break. “People who love her have to rise to the occasion to help her," she continued. Another person that the story could be about is Jo, who has struggled with her mental health in the past - and whose marriage is possibly about to get upturned, given Justin Chambers' recent exit from the show. The publication previously confirmed that while Alex Karev's absence will be acknowledged in the midseason premiere, it won't bring any closure to the matter. Earlier this month, Chambers confirmed he would be leaving Grey's Anatomy after 15 years. The 49-year-old has played Dr. Alex Karvev for all 16 seasons of the show. His last episode aired on November 14, 2019 in North America. “There’s no good time to say goodbye to a show and character that’s defined so much of my life for the past 15 years,” he said in a statement at the time. “For some time now, however, I have hoped to diversify my acting roles and career choices. And, as I turn 50 and am blessed with my remarkable, supportive wife and five wonderful children, now is that time.” He went on to thank Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rimes, as well as Ellen Pompeo,  Chandra Wilson and James Pickens - the three remaining original cast members.