'Madam Secretary' casts Sara Ramirez after Bebe Neuwirth exit

"Grey's Anatomy" actor Sara Ramirez has been roped in to star in the drama series "Madam Secretary".

The 42-year-old actor, who played Dr Calliope 'Callie' Torres in the popular medical drama, will play Kat Sandoval, legendary political strategist from D C, who abruptly left politics until Elizabeth (Tea Leoni) coaxes her back into the State Department, reports The Wrap.

Series creator and executive producer Barbara Hall confirmed the news in a statement.

"We're very excited that Sara is joining the cast. She brings a fresh perspective and a fun, energetic quality to the State Department staff," she said.

Ramirez's introduction comes after Bebe Neuwirth's shocking departure, who played Nadine Tolliver on the show.

A series regular, Neuwirth's Nadine left her position at the State Department, leaving fans in a lurch.