Grey's Anatomy renewed for season 22 as Ellen Pompeo continues recurring role

Grey’s Anatomy returns for season 22 alongside other ABC renewals, with Ellen Pompeo set for a recurring appearance.

ABC has officially renewed Grey’s Anatomy for a 22nd season, according to multiple entertainment outlets. The long-running medical drama will continue its historic run as the network’s longest-running primetime scripted series.

The renewal comes alongside several other ABC lineup decisions. 9-1-1, The Rookie, Will Trent, and Shifting Gears have also been picked up for new seasons. Meanwhile, Abbott Elementary and High Potential were previously renewed in January, leaving Doctor Odyssey, starring Joshua Jackson, as the only major ABC drama still awaiting confirmation.

The announcement comes amid ongoing shifts within the series, most notably the reduced presence of longtime lead Ellen Pompeo. The actress, who portrayed Meredith Grey for nearly two decades, scaled back her role in 2022. Appearing on The Drew Barrymore Show that December, Pompeo explained she wanted a change after years in the spotlight, describing the move as a chance to “mix it up a little bit.” She compared the transition to sending a child off to college, adding that stepping back would give her more time with her three children.

Pompeo has also spoken out about her fight for pay equity on the show. In a March 2025 episode of Call Her Daddy, she revealed that she was paid less than co-star Patrick Dempsey for years. While not resentful toward Dempsey, she criticized the network for undervaluing her contributions.

She credited Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes for backing her efforts and emphasized the importance of advocating for other women. “Once you get to a certain level,” she said, “you can use your platform to lift others up.”

Season 22 will return to Grey Sloan Memorial, with Pompeo expected to continue in a recurring role.