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Knight: Leaving 'Grey’s Anatomy' was hard

Rex Features

T.R. Knight has admitted that his decision to leave Grey's Anatomy was a difficult one.

Earlier this week, the actor and show creator Shonda Rhimes confirmed that Knight's George O’Malley character would not be returning for the sixth season of the ABC series.

He said in a statement today that he is "extremely grateful" for his time spent on the hospital drama, TV Guide reports.

"Leaving Grey's Anatomy was not an easy decision for me to make. I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to play this character and will miss my fellow cast and crew very much.

"I continue to wish them the very best, and wholeheartedly thank all of the fans who have supported me and the show with such passion and enthusiasm."

The announcement follows speculation that the 36-year-old had asked producers to write him off the show. Rhimes had previously labelled the rumours as "ridiculous".

Knight's part was last seen on the show's season five finale, flatlining and being defibrillated after he was struck by a bus.

Katherine Heigl’s character of Izzie was also rumoured to have left, however it was reported earlier today that she will remain on the programme.