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It’s a heart-wrenching moment for LGBTQ+ and ally fans of “Grey’s Anatomy” as Jake Borelli, who plays Dr. Levi Schmitt, is reportedly leaving the show after seven impactful seasons. Borelli’s departure marks the end of a significant era, especially given his character’s pioneering role in depicting the first gay romance on the series with Alex Landi’s Dr. Nico Kim.
Borelli’s portrayal of Dr. Schmitt has been groundbreaking, reflecting his real-life journey as he came out as gay shortly after his character’s own coming-out episode aired in 2018. His on-screen relationship with Nico Kim resonated deeply with many viewers, providing much-needed representation in mainstream television.
This season, Schmitt’s storyline reached new heights as he faced a life-changing moment, bumping into his ex, Nico, who is now in a new relationship and expecting a child via surrogate. This encounter catalyzed Schmitt to pursue his dreams, including a specialization in pediatric surgery, encouraged by his best friend, Dr. Jo Wilson (Camilla Luddington).
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However, Borelli’s exit comes amidst broader changes for the Shonda Rhimes-created medical drama. Reports suggest that budget cuts may lead to more cast reductions and fewer appearances from series veterans. The cancellation of the spin-off “Station 19” only underscores the shifting landscape at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
As fans brace for his departure, Borelli’s contribution to LGBTQ+ visibility on television remains profound. His heartfelt Instagram post in 2018 highlighted how playing Schmitt allowed him to tell the story he craved as a young gay kid in Ohio.
In March of 2022, Borelli posted a picture of him and Chase Williamson, a professional photographer, attending the Elton John AIDS Foundation‘s 30th Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party to his Instagram page.
Season 20 of “Grey’s Anatomy” is currently airing in the US on ABC and streaming on Disney+ in the UK .
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