 In September 2011 , Leigh requested an extended summer hiatus , in order to spend more time with her family . This was granted by Rhimes , though the actress returned in mid @-@ October . Leigh 's character died in the eighth season finale . In May 2012 , Rhimes revealed why she decided to have Lexie die : " I love Chyler and I love the character of Lexie Grey . She was an important member of my Grey 's family . This was not an easy decision . But it was a decision that Chyler and I came to together . We had a lot of thoughtful discussion about it and ultimately we both decided this was the right time for her character 's journey to end . As far as I 'm concerned , Chyler will always remain a part of the Shondaland family and I can 't wait to work with her again in the future . " Following the death of her character , Leigh released a statement saying : 
