Another major star is returning to reprise their role inGrey’s Anatomy. The long-running ABC medical drama has had a rotating ensemble cast over the years, with the only series regulars to have been a part of every season being James Pickens Jr. as Richard Webber and Chandra Wilson as Miranda Bailey, though Ellen Pompeo has continued to provide narration for the series as Meredith Grey despite departing the main cast in season 19. Pompeo will also be returning for seven episodes ofGrey’s Anatomyseason 21alongside other returning stars, including Kali Rocha as Sydney Heron.
Peopleshared an exclusive first look atGrey’s Anatomyseason 21. The teaser includes glimpses at upcoming storylines, such as the fallout of Meredith’s resignation and Miranda dealing with the return of Sydney Heron. However, the biggest reveal isthe return of Jesse Williams as Jackson Avery, a plastic surgeon who has not been seen on the show since a guest appearance on season 19, episode 5, “When I Get to the Border,” in 2022. See the teaser via the officialShondalandYouTube account below:
What Avery’s Return Means For Grey’s Anatomy Season 21
At the time of writing, it is unknown why Avery has returned to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, for how long he intends to stay, or what repercussions his decision will have on Meredith and the rest of the staff. However, despite his close relationship with Meredith in previousGrey’s Anatomyseasonsand having been instrumental in helping her move to Boston, he does not necessarily seem happy to see her in the short clip from the trailer. Thiscould potentially indicate that he comes bearing bad news.
Jesse Williams joined the main cast ofGrey’s Anatomyin season 7 after playing the character in a recurring capacity in season 6, eventually departing as a series regular at the end of season 17 in 2021.
As for the longevity of his stay, precedent may offer insight into the situation. Williams’ departure from theGrey’s Anatomycastwas amicable, as he left to explore more diverse acting opportunities, including the stage playTake Me Outand the Hulu comedyOnly Murders in the Building. Since his exit, he has already made one-episode appearances in season 18 and season 19, which could indicate that his return in season 21 will follow the same pattern and thathe may not return for further episodes before the end of the season.
Our Take On Avery’s Grey’s Anatomy Return
Avery’s Happily Ever After May Be In Jeopardy
If Avery does indeed come toGrey’s Anatomywith bad news, it may be related to his love interest April Kepner (Sarah Drew). While he has returned to the show without her before, the fact that she is not present in his season 21 return could indicate that his presence at Grey Sloan could be to announce her death. However, the simpler explanation could be thathe may have come to act as a mediator between Meredith and his mother Catherine Fox(Debbie Allen), between whom the trailer reveals there is still major friction.
Grey’s Anatomy
Cast
Grey’s Anatomy is a medical drama series revolving around surgical interns, residents, and attendings at the fictional Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. The show features the professional and personal lives of these medical professionals, led initially by Dr. Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo. Created by Shonda Rhimes, the series highlights the complexities of medical cases while delving into the interpersonal relationships among the hospital staff.
