Patrick Dempsey leaving Grey's Anatomy

Patrick Dempsey says the current season of 'Grey's Anatomy' will be "his last".

The 45-year-old actor, who has played Dr. Derek Shepherd in the US medical drama since 2005, says he has no plans to continue with the role once season eight ends but admits his departure at the end of his current contract will be "bittersweet".

He told Italy's Vanity Fair magazine: "It's gonna be my last. I do not know what's going to happen to the other characters, but for me it's done.

"[Leaving will be] bittersweet because it's been a great part of my life. But I can't see me doing it anymore."

Patrick - whose hunky character is nicknamed 'McDreamy' by fans of the show - also plans to distance himself from romantic comedies after becoming known for films such as 'Sweet Home Alabama' and 'Made of Honour' because he would rather take on more action roles.

He continued: "No more romantic comedies, that's for sure. I'm not the right age and in any case, I do not care, I do not feel at ease. I am more interested in action films."

After the star revealed he is leaving 'Grey's Anatomy', his publicist denied it was a definite decision but admitted his contract will soon come to an end.

The representative said: "He was referring to the fact that his contract is up at the end of next season and we have no idea what the future holds."

Meanwhile, Ellen Pompeo, who plays Meredith Grey on the show, has revealed that her contract will also finish at the end of next season and it is unlikely she will renew it.