Grey’s Anatomy Teaser: Showrunner On Meredith’s Absence & Other Cast News
Grey’s Anatomy fans were left reeling in the season 18 finale episode. The residency program is canceled, Dr. Miranda Bailey has resigned, and Drs. Teddy Altman and Owen Hunt are on the run. Meanwhile, Bailey’s interim replacement is Dr. Meredith Grey, who isn’t sure she wants to return. We already know that Ellen Pompeo will only appear in eight of the 20 episodes. Should fans be worried about all these major changes in their favorite medical drama? Read on to find out.
What happens in season 19 of Grey’s Anatomy?
Grey’s Anatomy showrunner, Krista Vernoff recently spoke about the upcoming season. The first question related to Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo), and the eight episodes in which she will appear. Readers will recall that Pompeo will be busy with a new project for Hulu, hence the few episodes. Vernoff was asked if Meredith would continue working in Minnesota with her handsome new beau, Nick (Scott Speedman).
The showrunner assured us that Meredith will not be in Minnesota, but wouldn’t say more. However, she quickly mentioned the new first-year interns, hinting that they will remind us of the memorable original batch. She simply said:
We’ve got a group of really exciting fresh new interns.
About the new interns at Grey Sloan
As previously reported, the image above was shared by James Pickens, Jr., who plays Dr. Richard Webber. Looking from left to right, the first intern is Niko Terho, who plays Lucas Adams. Meanwhile, he is determined to prove himself as a surgeon, like many of his family members before him.
Next in line is Adelaide Kane (Reign) as Jules Millin. Jules was raised by a “drug-addled artist/hippie,” ending up being the only real adult in her family. Meanwhile, third in line is Midori Francis as Mika Yasuda. Mika is apparently a middle child with eight siblings, who is used to being overlooked and underestimated. However, she uses this to her advantage.
Number four in the lineup is Harry Shum Jr. as Daniel “Blue” Kwan. As previously reported, his character is a sharp-witted, impatient and brilliant resident. Moreover, he is known to be generous by nature, but competitive to a fault.
Last, but by no means least, is Alexis Floyd as Simone Griffin. She is a high-achieving and smart young woman who grew up in Seattle. However, she never wanted to work at Grey Sloan due to a painful personal history with the hospital.
With the previous group of interns leaving, Vernoff was asked the fate of those two quirky residents, Schmitt (Jake Borelli) and Helm (Jaicy Elliot). Are they also leaving the cast of Grey’s Anatomy? She responded:
That’s a no. Schmitt, the only returning senior resident, is now chief resident, though his old pal Helm will have a longer journey back.
Other Grey’s Anatomy controversial cast members
Next, TV Insider asked if Drs. Teddy Altman (Kim Raver) and Owen Hunt (Kevin McKidd) are still on the run after he facilitated an assisted suicide?
Krista gave more details on this one. She said that when the fugitives return after six months, Owen retains his medical license. However, their marriage is reportedly in tatters and the couple is bankrupt.
What happens with Dr. Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson) and residency director Dr. Richard Webber, after they both left the hospital?
The Grey’s Anatomy showrunner explained that Webber is back from his travels and is committed to ensuring the new residency program thrives. Meanwhile, Meredith has been trying to persuade Bailey to resume her position. However, she has apparently been busy “parenting and volunteering in various ways.” However, Vernoff did add that Bailey does miss surgery.
Kate Walsh returns as Dr. Addison Montgomery
More recent casting news is that Kate Walsh is returning to her recurring role of Dr. Addison Montgomery after a few seasons of hiatus. Walsh is truly looking forward to being back with the gang at Grey Sloan Memorial again.
Season 19 of Grey’s Anatomy premieres on Thursday, October 6, at 9/8c on ABC.
