Actress Brooke Smith, who portrayed the role of Dr. Erica Hahn on Grey's Anatomy, has been cut from the show. A statement about her release was issued by Executive Producer Shonda Rhimes on November 3, 2008.E! Online: Brooke Smith Axed (November 3, 2008)
Release Statement
"Brooke Smith was obviously not fired for playing a lesbian. Clearly it's not an issue as we have a lesbian character on the show, Calliope Torres. Sara Ramirez is an incredible comedic and dramatic actress and we wanted to be able to play up her magic. Unfortunately, we did not find that the magic and chemistry with Brooke's character would sustain in the long run. The impact of the Callie/Erica relationship will be felt and played out in a story for Callie. I believe it belittles the relationship to simply replace Erica with 'another lesbian.' If you'll remember, Cristina mourned the loss of Burke for a full season."—Shonda RhimesE! Online: Brooke Smith Axed (November 3, 2008)