Unexpected farewells to beloved TV characters have marked 2026, with notable exits from shows like Grey’s Anatomy and Virgin River.
Fans of Virgin River were taken aback when showrunner Patrick Sean Smith announced that several characters would not return after season 7. Among them, Marco Grazzini shared his thoughts on leaving the role of Mike, ahead of the new season’s production for the popular Netflix series.
Grazzini, who joined the series in its second season, expressed, “Character departures are very common in this business — especially on a long-running and beloved series like Virgin River. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to play Mike for six seasons.”
He further expressed his gratitude, saying he has “nothing but love for the cast, crew, and especially the phenomenal fans who make the show so special,” and expressed excitement about the new chapter in his career.
In other news, Us Weekly reported that Scott Patterson will not appear in season 4 of Sullivan’s Crossing.
Roma Roth, executive producer and showrunner of Sullivan’s Crossing, revealed to Us Weekly that “Season 3 ended with Sully embarking on a new chapter in Ireland. Season 4 picks up the next day, with Sully still overseas. While he isn’t physically present this season, the character remains vital to the story and could return in future seasons, depending on creative developments.”
Keep scrolling for more surprising TV exits from 2026:
Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver (‘Grey’s Anatomy’)
In March 2026, McKidd and Raver revealed their exits from the series. McKidd expressed gratitude for his time on Grey’s Anatomy, stating, “Playing Dr. Owen Hunt and directing on the show have both shaped me enormously. I’m deeply thankful to Shonda Rhimes for creating Owen and supporting me as I ventured into directing.”
He added, “As this chapter closes, I look forward to new stories and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Raver shared her sentiments, reflecting, “Playing Dr. Teddy Altman has been a cherished experience. Sixteen years ago, I stepped into this role thanks to Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers. Bringing the words of Shonda and our brilliant team to life has been a true honor. To the fans — your unwavering support is why this show remains impactful. Thank you for making this set my magical home.”
Lauren Hammersley and Marco Grazzini (‘Virgin River’)
In March 2026, Patrick Sean Smith confirmed that Lauren Hammersley and Marco Grazzini would not return for further episodes. Smith explained, “I’m looking at the longevity of the show, ensuring that the remaining characters have enough story to keep moving forward. As characters’ stories conclude, decisions will be made, and new faces may join the cast.”
Scott Patterson (‘Sullivan’s Crossing’)
Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson in ‘Sullivan’s Crossing.’ The CW
Following confirmation of Scott Patterson’s departure, the actor cited significant offscreen issues as reasons behind his exit. He shared on Instagram, “I fell in love with Sully and have nothing but fondness for him. Unfortunately, creative differences became untenable, and I realized the show wasn’t something I could continue with.”
Patterson elaborated, “It’s unfortunate that it’s being implied they moved on from me/Sully when the opposite is true. Those who have spoken out are aware of this fact, yet choose otherwise. The fans deserve to know the truth.”
Patterson stood firm in his decision to speak out, stating, “I fought for Sully’s voice and character. The depth and richness of Sully, known and loved by fans of the books, is multi-layered and interesting. The fans deserved better than to think I’d disrespect the show or them. Ultimately, we’re all fans of these characters and stories, and I’ll always support and defend the truth.”
Todd Harthan (‘High Potential’)
In March 2026, it was revealed that showrunner Todd Harthan has left the series to focus on a live-action adaptation of Christopher Paolini’s YA book series, The Inheritance Cycle. The adaptation, titled Eragon, is co-created with Paolini, and Harthan will co-showrun alongside Todd Helbing.
Noah B. Taylor and Owen Painter (‘Wednesday’)
Noah B. Taylor as Bruno, Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair in episode 203 of Wednesday Netflix
The press release for season 3 of the hit Netflix series Wednesday did not mention Noah B. Taylor and Owen Painter.
Tia Napolitano (‘Fire Country’)
Tia Napolitano, the showrunner of Fire Country, departed in season 4 after being with the CBS show since its inception. CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach and CBS Studios President David Stapf stated, “Tia has been instrumental in building and steering Fire Country, which not only became a top series but also the foundation of a growing universe. We’re grateful for her contributions and look forward to future collaborations.”
Napolitano released her own statement, saying, “I am beyond proud of the past four seasons of Fire Country. Thanks to our cast, crew, writers, producers, fans, and CBS and CBS Studios. It’s been a beautiful ride!”
Gina Lucita Monreal (‘NCIS: Origins’)
In January 2026, CBS confirmed that co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal would be leaving the show at the end of the current season, leaving David J. North as the sole showrunner. CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach and CBS Studios President David Stapf stated, “Gina has been a beloved member of the ‘NCIS’ family for many years. We are incredibly grateful for her role in launching and steering NCIS: Origins and bringing these incredible characters to life. We look forward to working with her again and know the creative foundation she helped build will thrive.”
Monreal expressed her thoughts on the surprise departure, stating, “It’s been the biggest honor of my career to write NCIS: Origin’ alongside my incredible co-showrunner and friend David North. I want to thank Amy Reisenbach, David Stapf, and everyone at CBS Network and Studio for their support.”
She added, “To work again with the incomparable Mark Harmon, Sean Harmon, our writers, and the best cast and crew in the business — how lucky am I? I can’t wait to see what this extraordinary group creates for season 3.”
Prue Leith (‘The Great British Bake Off’)
Prue Leith announced her departure after nine seasons in January 2026. On Instagram, she shared, “After nine series and judging more than 400 challenges, I have decided to step down as a judge on The Great British Bake Off. Bake Off has been a fabulous part of my life for the last nine years, and I have genuinely loved it. I’m sure I’ll miss working with my fellow judge Paul, Alison, Noel, and the teams at Love Productions and Channel 4.”
Leith added that it felt like the “right time” for her to leave, stating, “I’m 86, for goodness sake! There’s so much I’d like to do, not least enjoy my garden in the summer. Whoever joins the team, I’m sure they’ll love it as much as I have.”
Dermot Mulroney (‘Chicago Fire’)
In January 2026, Deadline confirmed that Dermot Mulroney’s character would be temporarily written off Chicago Fire. Rob Morgan will assume his position at Firehouse 51, but Mulroney might return at the season’s end.
Katie Ginella (‘The Real Housewives of Orange County’)
Katie Ginella Trae Patton/Bravo
In January 2026, Katie Ginella announced via Instagram, “After two seasons as a cast member on RHOC, the network has decided to move forward with season 20 without me. Although disappointing, it’s not entirely surprising after how season 19 concluded.”
She expressed her gratitude, “I’m incredibly grateful for the love and support I received — it was seen, felt, and deeply appreciated. Representation matters, and I’m proud to have shown up authentically, even when it wasn’t easy. This chapter may be closing, but my voice and my story don’t end here. Love, Katie.”
