To put it simply, Greys Anatomy wont be the same without Alex Karev (Justin Chambers). In January, the 49-year-old actor announced his departure from the Shondaland series after 16 seasons. And reportedly, fans have already seen Chambers final moments as Alex in the 350th episode milestone. But without a proper sendoff before the midseason hiatus, will Alexs exit be addressed in the Greys Anatomy Season 16 winter premiere? Heres what we know so far.

On Jan. 10, Chambers released a statement about his departure from Greys Anatomy, thanking everyone from his immediate family to the cast and crew of the ABC series.

Theres no good time to say goodbye to a show and character thats defined so much of my life for the past 15 years, Chambers said, per Deadline. For some time now, however, I have hoped to diversify my acting roles and career choices. And, as I turn 50 and am blessed with my remarkable, supportive wife and five wonderful children, now is that time.

He continued: As I move on from Greys Anatomy, I want to thank the ABC family, Shonda Rimes, original cast members Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson and James Pickens, and the rest of the amazing cast and crew, both past and present, and, of course, the fans for an extraordinary ride.

Then when speaking with Page Six, Chambers revealed it was difficult leaving the show. Anywhere that you spend 15 years, its a big chunk of your life, Chambers said. Greyshas been very supportive of me and Im very grateful and its been a great ride.

[Spoiler alert:reys AnatomySeason 16 midseason premiere.]

Following the news, multiple outlets confirmed Chambers previously filmed his final Greys Anatomy episode the 350th episode aired on Nov. 14. Alex last appeared to support Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) during her medical license hearing. He brought in previous patients and read heartfelt letters written by old co-workers. However, Alex did not show up in the midseason finale. Instead, he went home to take care of his mom in Iowa offscreen.

Naturally, Greys Anatomy fans are now curious to see how the ABC drama writes Alex out of the story. Of course, most individuals are worried the team will kill the character off, given the seemingly sudden departure. And others are concerned Chambers exit wont be addressed at all.

Nevertheless, TVLine confirmed the winter premiere on Jan. 23 will address Chambers absence. But fans might be a little disappointed, as the publication hinted it will not be in a way that will bring closure to the matter.

No matter how the Greys Anatomy team addresses Chambers exit, fans can still expect a dramatic winter premiere. When a fan asked TVLine whether they should expect tears during the episode, the publication couldnt reveal any major plot points or if someone dies. But the crossover event with Station 19 will certainly pack a punch.

There will be a major turning point for one couple and a big decision thats sure to haunt the doctor who makes it. Meanwhile, an emotional scene will emerge during the Station 19 Season 3 premiere. And it looks like Teddy (Kim Raver) will share a special moment with Ben (Jason George) at some point.

Then in an interview with People, Jesse Williams promised the Greys AnatomyStation 19 crossover will be scary as hell and startling.

And Station 19s Barrett Doss confirmed. The season premiere, everybody is in it together, she said. The stakes are super high and they all have to use all of their skills to solve this problem.

Read more:Greys Anatomy: These Jo and Alex Theories Explain What Happens to the Karevs After Justin Chambers Leaves

Continue reading here:
'Grey's Anatomy': Will Alex's Exit Be Addressed When Season 16 Returns for the Winter Premiere? - Showbiz Cheat Sheet