Grey’s Anatomy fans were left devastated on April 23, 2015, when the beloved character Dr. McDreamy, played by the charming Patrick Dempsey, tragically died on the show. But why did Dempsey leave the hit series that millions adored?
Dempsey’s journey in Hollywood began with his role as the nerdy teenager Ronald Miller in the 1987 romantic comedy Can’t Buy Me Love. Years later, he emerged as the dreamy doctor in Grey’s Anatomy, captivating fans with his portrayal. While rumors of Dempsey’s departure circulated since 2013, he and co-star Ellen Pompeo signed a new two-year contract in 2014, promising fans more McDreamy until 2016.
Little did anyone know about the turmoil Dempsey was facing behind the scenes. In a candid interview for the book How to Save a Life: The Inside Story of Grey’s Anatomy (2021), Dempsey revealed his resentment towards the demanding schedule of the show. “It’s 10 months, 15 hours a day. You never know your schedule,” he shared. The challenges of balancing work and family were taking a toll on him after 11 years of commitment. “But you have to be grateful because you’re well compensated, so you can’t really complain because you don’t really have a right,” he added.
The turning point came in early 2015 when Dempsey faced a personal crisis. While participating in a 24-hour race event in Daytona Beach, Florida, Jillian Fink, his wife of 15 years at the time, unexpectedly filed for divorce. Dempsey, also a professional race car driver, realized the potential end of his marriage was “scary.” He decided to leave his role as Dr. McDreamy and shift his focus towards repairing his relationship with his wife and being present as a father to their three children.
Dempsey’s love story with Jillian began in 1994, when he walked into her salon, Delux, where she was not only a stylist but also the owner. Their connection grew over time, with Dempsey’s surprise visits to the salon, and eventually, they embarked on a relationship. They tied the knot in 1999 in an intimate ceremony at his family’s farmhouse in Maine, surrounded by their loved ones.
The 2000s brought both success and challenges for Dempsey and Jillian. While Dempsey revived his career with roles in movies like Scream 3, Grey’s Anatomy, Made of Honor, Valentine’s Day, and Bridget Jones’s Baby, Jillian thrived as a celebrated makeup artist with a client list that included many Hollywood celebrities. Together, they welcomed their daughter Talula in 2002 and twins Sullivan and Darby in 2007.
Realizing the importance of their bond, Dempsey and Jillian decided to prioritize their marriage and work on their issues. “Everybody has their own path,” Dempsey reflected. “Our union has to be the priority.” Their determination paid off when they called off the divorce in 2016. Now, as they celebrate their 24th wedding anniversary, their love continues to grow stronger.
Patrick Dempsey’s decision to leave Grey’s Anatomy was motivated by his love for his family and the desire to save his marriage. It’s a sweet love story that reminds us of the importance of prioritizing the people we cherish. What do you think about Dempsey’s decision? Share your thoughts with us!
