We knew we were losing some Grey’s Anatomy cast members when the 21st season hit the 2024 TV schedule, but as we bid farewell to Levi Schmitt on Thursday’s emotional episode I

While Grey’s Anatomy character Levi Schmitt has been unapologetically himself through his career at Grey Sloan Memorial, it took actor Jake Borelli more convincing. “I had so much trepidation. I almost said no to Krista [Vernoff,

"I think it's so beautiful to see two gay men in a loving relationship like this, where they are willing to take huge leaps of faith for one another," Borelli tells PEOPLE