The Most Heartbreaking Character Exits on Grey's Anatomy, Ranked

Burke's exit is less sad for him and sadder for the impact it had on everyone else. At his planned wedding to Cristina, he leaves her at the altar and just leaves town forever. Watching Cristina sob over her lost love — while also repeating, "I'm free, I'm free" — as Meredith cuts her out of her wedding dress is definitely one of the most iconic and devastating Grey's moments.