Dr. Derek Sheperd, one of 'Grey's Anatomy's' biggest characters, is no more. Following a shocking episode last Thursday in which Derek passes away due to a car accident and a subsequent bungled rescue at the hospital, the show's leading man for most of its eleven seasons will depart the show, and with it, actor Patrick Dempsey.

Speaking about the development which has surprised long-time fans of the show, Dempsey explained that while he was still committed to the show after signing a two year extension last year, the show's development team decided to write his character off the show. Still, the actor took the decision in stride and added that the particular storyline that led to his character's death evolved naturally and was in no way meant for mere shock value.

"It just sort of evolved. It's just kind of happened. It really was something that was kind of surprising that unfolded, and it just naturally came to be. Which was pretty good. I like the way it has all played out," he said, in an exclusive interview with Entertainment Weekly.

While fans of the show are naturally disappointed, among other emotions, at the sudden turn of events, Dempsey himself seems okay with how things ended. In a nod to the fans who are distraught with his character's departure, the actor said, "I think it will be very shocking, the way it happens. It's really going to be powerful. But life is like that. I think any time an original cast member has left, there's always a void that will never be filled. Shepherd is a beloved character. People don't want to lose him. He's been in their lives for over 10 years. But it goes on, and it will evolve."

For her part, executive producer Shonda Rhimes expressed confidence that the show still has something to offer for fans of the show. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Rhimes states, "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."