Fans of the longest running medical drama were overjoyed on Monday 10th May when Grey’s Anatomy revealed they would be returning for another season.

The social media posts confirming season 18 came after speculation the show was ending after this current season (17) however, leading lady Ellen Pompeo (Meredith Grey) signed on for another season.

Season 18 was up in the air for a long time with speculation the current season 17 would be the last but here is everything we know so far about the upcoming season.

 

Who is returning?

Alongside Pompeo, last ones standing Chandra Wilson (Bailey) and James Pickens Jr. (Webber) who are the only three remaining characters from season one still on air have announced they will also be returning.

Three actors were already onboard another season of the show if it was to be picked up again: Kevin McKidd (Owen), Kim Raver (Teddy) and Camilla Luddington (Jo). They will be making a return in the highly anticipated season.

Other main actors like Kelly McCreary (Maggie), Caterina Scorsone (Amelia), Richard Flood (Hayes) and Anthony Hill (Winston) are expected to return.

 

Who will not be returning?

Fan-favourite Jesse Williams (Jackson) announced his departure from the show last week with his goodbye episode set to air next week (20th May). Williams, who portrayed Jackson for the last 12 years will not be in the new season.

 

Season 18 plot details?

Season 17 tackled some of the toughest storylines to date, many of which hit home for viewers. The likes of the coronavirus pandemic and racial inequality were tackled this season so it is only natural to assume season 18 will do the same

Beyond that, no indication into what story lines the season will cover has been shared however fans are hoping it will include coming out of the pandemic and returning to some form of normality and the possible return of other character.

Season 17 saw the return of Patrick Dempsey (Derek), T.R. Knight (George), Eric Dane (Mark), Chyler Leigh (Lexie) and Sarah Drew (April) leaving fans hoping that more fan-favourite may make an appearance in season 18.

 

When will it air?

There has been no official release date for season 18.

Season 17 had a delayed premier in November 2020 due to the pandemic but Grey’s Anatomy non-pandemic scheduling usually airs from September to May so we can expect to see the new season air around end of September 2021.

 

Grey’s Anatomy season 17 still has three highly anticipated episodes left to air this season with the finale set for 3rd June.