Audra McDonald to Exit ABC's Private Practice

Four-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald will depart TV's Private Practice at the end of this season, according to TVLine.com. McDonald has been part of the Grey's Anatomy spinoff since it debuted in the fall of 2007.

McDonald is reportedly leaving the series to be closer with her family (including her 10-year-old daughter Zoe and boyfriend Will Swenson, star of the upcoming Priscilla Queen of the Desert) in New York. While she will no longer be a series regular, it is likely her character Naomi will return for guest spots.

“I have spent four amazing years working with the best cast and crew on television at Private Practice,” McDonald said. “Though I am stepping away from the series as a regular in order to spend more time in New York with my family, I am not closing the door on Private Practice or the character, Naomi. I am beyond grateful to [series creator] Shonda Rhimes, ABC, and the team behind the show.”

Rhimes also released a statement saying, "We are so appreciative of Audra and her talents and look forward to having her return to Private Practice as often as possible. Audra has been a bicoastal commuter throughout our four seasons on the air, and, ultimately, we respect and appreciate her desire to spend more time with family in New York.”

McDonald received Tony Awards for A Raisin in the Sun, Ragtime, Master Class and Carousel. She has also received Tony nominations for 110 in the Shade and Marie Christine. Her TV and film credits include Wit, Annie, Cradle Will Rock, The Bedford Diaries and Kidnapped.