Grey's Anatomy Season 10 could be the final season of the ABC medical drama. This is the speculation among many fans who have read about Patrick Dempsey's remarks Thursday (Jul. 25). Curious words were said during a promo tour for his new Velocity docuseries. Ellen Pompeo, who plays the wife of Dempsey's character in the series could be leaving, too. Is this the end for MerDer?

"When you're in a long show, there's less discovery and more of an endurance of having to be present," says Patrick Dempsey. (Credit: Kevin McKidd/Twitter)

Patrick Dempsey plays Derek Shepherd aka McDreamy in Grey's Anatomy. Ellen Pompeo plays Derek's wife, Meredith Grey. Together, they are known to shipping fans as MerDer. Both celebs are under contract until the end of Season 10. But two years ago, the two were already a step away from the exit door, according to rumours. Is Season 10 the final Grey's season?

Grey's Anatomy Season 10 to Show the Last of MerDer?

The horrific plane crash in Grey's Anatomy Season 8 finale was the creative result of a contract issue among the original stars of the series. Series creator Shonda Rhimes had said the writers wanted to create a scenario in which they could be flexible moving forward.

Rumours were rife at the time that Ellen already wanted to quit. When she and Patrick signed for two more years, it was believed a huge pay check was the big factor they considered. And now they're on the second half of the last contract renewal.

Reason why Patrick Dempsey wants to quit Grey's Anatomy?

"When you're in a long show, there's less discovery and more of an endurance of having to be present," Dempsey told the press at the 2013 Television Critics Association Press Tour in Beverly Hills Thursday.

"I'm not necessarily bored with the show," Patrick said, but it did seem like he was hugely favouring Racing LeMans over Grey's Anatomy. "I'm grateful I have the gig, but it's not the same thing as being in a racecar," Patrick explained further. According to the actor, being in a race keeps him "alive." Still, Patrick is not exactly keen on making a confirmed Grey's Anatomy Season 10 exit. He stressed, "I think I need both (the race and Grey's), honestly."

Just over a week ago, Patrick seemed thrilled to announce filming has begun for Grey's Anatomy Season 10. This was what he said on Twitter:

Table read today ep 1001 and 1002 , Gray's anatomy, 10 years! Wow ! Want to thank the fans !

— Patrick Dempsey (@PatrickDempsey) July 16, 2013

Grey's Anatomy Season 10 will premiere in September. For spoilers, follow this link and this link. There are more Grey's related articles below.

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