Fans of "Grey's Anatomy," the long-running popular ABC television drama, are gearing up to bid adieu to Sandra Oh, who will be leaving the show when the 10th season ends. In fact, the actress, who has portrayed character Cristina Yang since the medical drama premiered in 2005, announced her decision to quit the show last August.

Before renewing her contract two years back, an emotional Oh told The Hollywood Reporter that though the show had become an integral part of her life, she want to quit now and pursue other opportunities. "Creatively, I really feel like I gave it my all, and I feel ready to let her go," she said.

Oh's decision to quit the show after 10 seasons came as a big shock to her fans as well as those 'addicted' to "Grey's Anatomy." Last August, the actress said, "It's been a great privilege to play the character of Cristina Yang on GA and I am both sad and excited to see where this, her final season will take her."

Even Shonda Rhimes was somewhat emotional and promised a suitable end for Oh's journey. She teased, "When Sandra walks out of my door, Grey's Anatomy will be once again changed forever."

On April 24, the last day of her shooting, Oh tweeted to her followers, "Starting the last day of shooting on Grey's with my usual mug of tea. A little meditation and much gratitude," adding, "I've been dreaming nonstop about Grey's for the past few weeks." "(Just) can't believe it's my last week here already."

However, fans are mistaken if they think that Cristina's exit would be a smooth one. Being a Rhimes' show, the ride to the end is expected to be an uncertain one. On the contrary, in "Change of Heart," the new episode that will air on Thursday, Cristina is faced with some very difficult situations and needs to make some important decisions.

Incidentally, no other cast members of "Grey's Anatomy" are supposed to leave the show before the next season. While Ellen Pompeo (Meredith Grey) and Patrick Dempsey (Derek Shephard) have already inked new deals, others like Justin Chambers (Alex), James Pickens Jr. (Webber), and Chandra Wilson (Bailey) are yet to renew their contracts.

As the journey for Cristina ends, viewers will see the return of Isaiah Washington, who plays Dr. Preston Burke. His character left Cristina at the altar in season three. According to Rhimes, "He gives her story that full-circle moment we need to properly say goodbye to our beloved Cristina Yang."

"Grey's Anatomy" airs every Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on ABC.