“Grey’s Anatomy” is Officially Returning for Season 21 at ABC

Ellen Pompeo as Dr. Meredith Grey in
Ellen Pompeo as Dr. Meredith Grey in "Grey's Anatomy." Photo by Gilles Mingasson/ABC/Kobal/Shutterstock (10831957bt)

Grey’s Anatomy has been a part of ABC’s programming for almost two decades, and it’s not going anywhere. Despite rumors that its current season might be its last, the hit series has been renewed for Season 21, extending its record as the longest-running primetime medical drama in history.

Season 20 of Grey’s Anatomy is currently airing on ABC, but it’s the show’s shortest installment to date. Its run has been reduced to 10 episodes in the face of the dual strikes in Hollywood, but things are looking better for Season 21, which will reportedly feature 18 episodes.

It’s unclear who will return for the show’s next season since ABC is yet to renew the contracts with the show’s veteran cast members. Season 20 starred Chandra Wilson, James Pickens, Jr., Kevin McKidd, Caterina Scorsone, Camilla Luddington, and Kim Raver, plus the former lead Ellen Pompeo in a reduced capacity.

Season 20 also marked a major shakeup behind the camera, with Meg Marinis stepping up as a new showrunner, replacing Krista Vernoff. Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes praised her commitment in an official statement, saying her “storytelling is a gift that continues to keep the show vibrant, compelling and alive, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for next season.”