Grey’s Anatomy season 21 release date confirmed with huge schedule shake-up (2024)

Watch the trailer for Grey's Anatomy season 20

Grey’s Anatomy fans have a reason to celebrate this week as a return date for the hit ABC drama has finally been confirmed.

TVLine has revealed the eagerly awaited 21st season will premiere this September.

The popular drama still watched by millions follows the medical residents of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, including the iconic Meredith Grey (played by Ellen Pompeo).

Series lead Ellen has taken a step back in recent years after Meredith’s coma and shock decision to move to Boston, but it’s now been confirmed she’ll have a larger role in the forthcoming instalment.

However, there are still some huge changes to come when the series returns, including a shake-up to the schedule.

Grey’s Anatomy season 21 release date confirmed with huge schedule shake-up (Image: ABC)

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Grey’s Anatomy’s season 21 premiere will fall on Thursday, September 26 - but not at the time fans might expect.

Moving from its usual 9pm timeslot, the series will now air at 10pm Eastern Time in the States.

Taking the show’s regular slot is newcomer Dr Odyssey, a medical drama set on board a luxury cruise ship.

American Horror Story mastermind Ryan Murphy produced the new series, starring Joshua Jackson and Don Johnson.

Ellen Pompeo will be back as Meredith Grey in at least seven episodes of the new season (Image: ABC)

New episodes of season 21 will continue every Thursday, but fans could expect some midseason breaks for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Producers have also agreed to a slightly shorter season than usual, with 18 episodes as opposed to the usual 20+. However, this is still a jump up from last season, which was cut to just 10 instalments due to the Hollywood writers' and actors’ strikes.

For fans catching up with all the drama in the UK, new episodes will follow the ABC broadcast on Disney+.

An exact release date for the season in the UK hasn’t been confirmed, but episodes are usually released just two weeks after the initial airdate.

Some huge names for the cast could be making their exit this season (Image: ABC)

The timing of the premiere isn’t the only big change happening to Grey’s Anatomy this year.

Both Jake Borelli (Levi Schmitt) and Midori Francis (Mika Yasuda) will be bowing out at some point next season, plus some Grey’s veterans still haven’t renewed their contracts, so there could be even more unexpected exits to come.

Thankfully, TV icon Ellen has, in fact, boosted her appearances to at least seven episodes. According to TVLine, she could be appearing in as many as 14 across the season.

Grey’s Anatomy premieres Thursday, September 26 on ABC in the USA and is available to stream on Disney+ in the UK.