Dempsey Thanks 'Grey's' Fans

 Patrick Dempsey took to Twitter on Friday to share a few words with fans following his exit from "Grey's Anatomy."

On Thursday night's "Grey's Anatomy," Dr. Derek Shepherd, the character Patrick played on the series, died.


As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com , "Grey's" boss Shonda Rhimes issued a statement after the episode aired.

"Derek Shepherd is and will always be an incredibly important character -- for Meredith, for me and for the fans. I absolutely never imagined saying goodbye to our 'McDreamy,'" Shonda said in a statement after the episode aired. "Patrick Dempsey's performance shaped Derek in a way that I know we both hope became a meaningful example -- happy, sad, romantic, painful and always true -- of what young women should demand from modern love. His loss will be felt by all. Now, Meredith and the entire 'Grey's Anatomy' family are about to enter uncharted territory as we head into this new chapter of her life. The possibilities for what may come are endless. As Ellis Grey would say: the carousel never stops turning."