The ABC series Grey's Anatomy is one of the longest-running medical drama series in television history. The show was recently renewed for Season 19, leaving some viewers thinking it may have overstayed its welcome. Part of the reason that opinion exists is that plenty of key cast members have disappeared over the years, including several fan-favorite stars.
Dr. Arizona Robbins, played by Jessica Capshaw, left Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital after a decade. Capshaw had played Arizona for 10 seasons and been part of a popular relationship storyline with Dr. Callie Torres, portrayed by Sara Ramirez (who would go on to portray the not so fan-favorite character of Che Diaz in And Just Like That...). Why did Capshaw leave Grey's Anatomy?
Who Was Dr. Arizona Robbins on Grey's Anatomy?
Dr. Arizona Robbins was introduced in the Season 5 episode "Wish You Were Here" as head of pediatric surgery at what became Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Arizona's relationship with orthopedic resident Callie Torres began shortly after her arrival. Callie later had a one-night stand with plastic surgeon Mark Sloan that resulted in her pregnancy. Despite that betrayal, Callie and Arizona agreed to raise daughter Sofia together after she was born.
The infamous plane crash in Season 8 resulted in Arizona's leg being amputated, which caused her to become extremely self-conscious. Her insecurity led to her own one-night stand with Lauren Boswell and her relationship with Callie ended, though they consented to a joint-custody agreement for Sofia. Sara Ramirez, who played Callie, left the show through their character's move to New York. Arizona and Sofia eventually joined Callie in the Season 14 finale, hinting that the ex-couple was on the road to reconciliation.
Why Jessica Capshaw Left Grey's Anatomy
Jessica Capshaw was only signed for three episodes of Grey's Anatomy after her character's introduction in "Wish You Were Here." However, Capshaw was promoted to a series regular during Season 6 and remained on the show until the Season 14 finale. She left the show at the same time as actress Sarah Drew, who played Dr. April Kepner. According to a statement showrunner Krista Vernoff gave Deadline, both Drew and Capshaw's departures stemmed from where Grey's Anatomy was headed creatively.
Despite being written out of the series, Capshaw shared in a statement on Twitter that her character would have "impact on the world forever." However, since Ramirez's character has yet to return (as they are busy with other projects, like a possible return to And Just Like That... for Season 2, despite the revival's lukewarm reception), it's not likely that Capshaw will come back either. Grey's Anatomy fans will just have to hold on to their fond memories of Arizona.
