'Grey's Anatomy' Fans Get a Big Update About the Future of the Show

Chandra Wilson as Dr. Bailey on 'Grey's Anatomy.'

Grey's Anatomy is only a few episodes into its landmark 20th season, but already the show, which is the longest-running medical drama on primetime TV (no big deal), has been renewed for Season 21.

“The loyalty and love of Grey’s Anatomy fans has propelled us into a historic 21st season, and I could not be more grateful,” creator Shonda Rhimes said. The TV mogul also gave a shoutout to new showrunner Meg Marinis, who's worked on Grey's in some capacity since Season 3 but only just replaced Krista Vernoff as series boss this year. “Meg Marinis’ 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," Rhimes said.

Although details about the 21st season are scarce, here's what we know so far about the cast and potential release date.

Will there be a Grey's Anatomy Season 21?

Yes! ABC announced on April 2, 2024 that the show will get a 21st season.

Related: Everything to Know About 'Grey's Anatomy' Season 20

What is the Grey's Anatomy Season 21 release date?

ABC hasn't confirmed an exact release date for the show just yet, but it will return for the 2024-2025 television season and is likely to premiere in late September or early October, as it has in years past.

How many episodes are in Grey's Anatomy Season 21?

ABC has not provided any confirmation on this front, either, but Deadline reports that the season is expected to include 18 episodes. Season 20 consists of just 10 episodes, as production was delayed by the Hollywood strikes.

Who is in the Grey's Anatomy cast for Season 21?

A lot can happen between now and Season 21, but for the time being let's assume the following core cast members will be back.

Chandra Wilson (Miranda Bailey)

James Pickens Jr. (Richard Webber)

Kevin McKidd (Owen Hunt)

Kim Raver (Teddy Altman)

Debbie Allen (Catherine Fox)

Caterina Scorsone (Amelia Shepherd)

Camilla Luddington (Jo Wilson)

Chris Carmack (Atticus 'Link' Lincoln)

Anthony Hill (Dr. Winston Ndugu)

Jake Borelli (Levi Schmitt)

Harry Shum Jr. (Benson Kwan)

Adelaide Kane (Jules Millin)

Alexis Floyd (Simone Griffin)

Niko Terho (Lucas Adams)

Midori Francis (Mika Yasuda)

Related: How Every Grey's Anatomy Character Got Written Off the Show

Will Ellen Pompeo be in Grey's Anatomy Season 21?

Pompeo exited the long-running medical drama as a series regular in Season 19, but she hasn't said goodbye to the show for good. Instead, she's stayed on as a producer and narrator, and she pops in when her schedule (and storyline) permits. Although ABC has not confirmed that Pompeo will be back for Season 21, it seems conceivable that she'll wear her scrubs once more.

How to watch Grey's Anatomy Season 21

Grey's Anatomy is likely to retain its coveted time slot of Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on ABC. Viewers will be able to stream next day on Hulu.

Next, Ellen Pompeo's Net Worth in 2024 and the Massive 'Grey's Anatomy' Salary She's Giving Up