It’s Official: Grey’s Anatomy Season 22 Is Coming—Here’s How Many Episodes to Expect and When Ellen Pompeo Returns

Grey’s Anatomy season 22 has been confirmed, with its episode count and the return of star Ellen Pompeo also revealed. The ABC ratings juggernaut first debuted in March 2005 and has since run 443 episodes, launching the careers of multiple well-known A-listers in the process. Pompeo shone as the main character, Dr. Meredith Grey, playing the leading role in the series for 19 seasons before scaling back her involvement with the show. This has left many wondering what her involvement will be in the upcoming Grey’s Anatomy season 22.

Per Deadline, it has been confirmed that Grey’s Anatomy has been renewed for season 22, which will have 18 episodes, matching season 21’s episode count. Legacy star Pompeo is also set to return as Meredith Grey, after scaling back to a recurring on-screen role from season 20, while continuing as executive producer and narrator. How many of those 18 episodes she will appear in remains unknown. Other long-term cast members are also expected to return, after many signed deals last year, while regulars Jake Borelli and Midori Francis will not return after departing last season.

What This Means For Grey’s Anatomy Season 22

This Could Be The Final Season Of The Cultural Behemoth

The cast of Grey’s Anatomy has been vast and diverse over the years, with only three of the original members now remaining – Pompeo, James Pickens Jr., and Chandra Wilson. Pompeo’s scaled-back role led many to believe the star was set to exit the show, but her return for season 22 suggests she is not finished yet. It is unclear whether her role will continue to be a scaled-back recurring one, or if she is due to make more regular appearances, but the show’s veteran cast is also poised for a comeback.

Grey’s Anatomy cast members expected to return for season 22.

Whilst Grey’s Anatomy is not the ratings juggernaut it once was, the show remains an important cultural landmark and still continues to resonate with audiences. Season 22 could wind up being the show’s final collection of episodes, and this might mean Pompeo looks to expand her role once again, but this is not definitive. Ultimately, Grey’s Anatomy season 22 will seek to expand on what worked well in season 21, whilst also looking to set up future storylines.

Our Take On Grey’s Anatomy Season 22

The Show Can Get Its Veteran Cast Together For A Great Send-Off

Grey’s Anatomy season 21 marked a return to form for the show in many ways, and there will be hope that season 22 can continue this trend. If the show is ambling toward a conclusion, bringing the veteran cast together for one last season would help send the series off on a high note. ABC’s flagship show is displaying few signs of slowing down, but behind the scenes, there may be plans in place to conclude the series sooner rather than later, and bringing Pompeo back in a more regular role would be a good way to bring Grey’s Anatomy full circle.