Midori Francis is the latest victim of the budget cuts necessary to keep the old ones.
Two days ago it was Jake Borelli (alias Dr Levi Schmitt) who was announced on departure, after 7 years of good and loyal service in Grey's Anatomy. Today it's Midori Francis who seems to be heading towards the exit.
The actress revealed in the romantic series Dash and Lily on Netflix in 2021, has played Dr. Mika Yasuda, a surgical intern, since 2022. Arriving in Seattle during season 19, she is part of the latest class of new doctors – alongside Niko Terho, Adelaide Kane, Alexis Floyd and Harry Shum Jr – meant to freshen up the storylines. As the episodes progressed, she began to develop a relationship with co-head resident Taryn Helm (Jaicy Elliot).
We do not yet know exactly when or how she will leave, but her departure comes in a context of budget cuts announced by production, with a view to the 21st season, ordered for the start of the school year. Indeed, these departures should make it possible to keep the old ones, Chandra Wilson (Bailey) and James Pickens Jr. (Richard), as well as Kevin McKidd. (Owen), Kim Raver (Teddy), Caterina Scorsone (Amelia) and Camilla Luddington (Jo), whose contracts also expired this spring. Production must find the money to renew them and these departures should free up space in the payroll.
A recurring practice within Grey's Anatomy. In the past, the medical drama notoriously had Sarah Drew (April Kepner) leave for the same reasons, at the end of season 14.
Grey's Anatomy will end its 20th season on Thursday, May 30 in the United States on ABC.