It’s been seven years since Patrick Dempsey has been a regular part of "Grey’s Anatomy." When the series premiered back in 2005, his character, Derek, and Ellen Pompeo’s Meredith were definitely one of the “it” couples, and fans rode the ups and downs of their relationship until McDreamy’s tragic death in Season 11. Now, as the medical drama enters its 19th season, we’re preparing to see far less of Meredith as well, as Pompeo has announced she’ll only appear in eight episodes this season. Opinions have been circulating about how long "Grey’s" can survive without its lead, and Patrick Dempsey spoke with CinemaBlend about it at Disney's D23 Expo.

"Grey’s Anatomy" will reportedly pivot its focus away from Meredith and the rest of the veteran doctors in Season 19 to focus on a new class of interns. Patrick Dempsey, who made several appearances from beyond the grave in Season 17 spoke with CinemaBlend, explaining why he thinks the show could maintain its success on ABC even with Ellen Pompeo not returning full time.