Patrick Dempsey Reflects On The “Biggest Gift” To Come From Being On Grey’s Anatomy

Former Grey’s Anatomy actor Patrick Dempsey, who starred as Derek Shepherd for 11 seasons, reflects on his experience with the ABC show

Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey reveals the “biggest gift” to come from his time on the show. Dempsey made his debut as leading man Derek Shepherd in the Grey’s Anatomy pilot. Derek’s on-again-off-again relationship with Ellen Pompeo’s Meredith fueled the early seasons, with the two eventually marrying and having children. However, Dempsey exited in Grey’s Anatomy season 11, leading to Derek’s death in a car accident. The actor returned for several episodes in season 17, which found Meredith near death from COVID. That led to her reuniting with Derek and other deceased characters.

Appearing on Good Morning America (via EW) on December 18, Dempsey discussed his upcoming movie Ferrari, his recent Sexiest Man Alive title, and his work with The Dempsey Center, which offers cancer care and support. The actor took time to credit Grey’s Anatomy in the process. Check out the clip and his comment below:

[Grey’s Anatomy] has really inspired so many people to go into the medical profession and has given me the platform to be able to do the Ferrari movie and to be able to have [the Sexiest Man Alive title]. I think that’s been the biggest gift coming out of that show, is to be able to do something positive and give back.

Will Patrick Dempsey Return to Grey’s Anatomy?

Dempsey’s Grey’s Anatomy exit came as a shock to viewers at the time. While Derek had a reduced presence in season 11 due to a job in D.C., his relationship with Meredith was still a major part of the show. Additionally, Dempsey was in the middle of a two-year contract at the time, so conventional wisdom suggested he would remain with the series through season 12. However, in the years since, comments from Dempsey and other members of the Grey’s Anatomy team have suggested the actor was unhappy with the show’s intense shooting schedule, leading to poor behavior on-set.

For a time, it seemed unlikely Dempsey would ever return to Grey’s Anatomy, due to both the off-screen circumstances and Derek’s death. That’s a big part of the reason why audiences were so surprised by Meredith and Derek’s reunion in 2021. However, now that Dempsey has shown his willingness to return, as well as gratitude for the opportunities he’s received because of the show, another appearance seems more likely than it has in the past.

Though Dempsey’s primary issue was the long hours, that wouldn’t prevent him from popping by for a quick episode or two. Of course, Derek’s death remains a factor, limiting storytelling possibilities. Additionally, with Pompeo now appearing less frequently on Grey’s Anatomy herself, another appearance by Dempsey may be saved for the show’s series finale, as Derek’s return would be nearly guaranteed to involve Meredith. At any rate, Dempsey speaking positively about his time on the show bodes well for those who would like to see Derek back before Grey’s Anatomy ends.

Grey’s Anatomy season 20 premieres Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 9 p.m. EST on ABC.