The upcoming 21st season of the long-running ABC medical drama is expected to consist of 18 episodes, up from the 10-episode strike-impacted 20th season.
- Apr 3, 2024
AceShowbiz - ABC has announced the renewal of "Grey's Anatomy" for a landmark 21st season, making it the longest-running primetime medical drama and the network's longest-running primetime scripted series.
The renewal comes three episodes into the groundbreaking 20th season of the show, which premiered in 2005. The 21st season is expected to consist of 18 episodes, up from the 10-episode strike-impacted 20th season.
Creator Shonda Rhimes expressed her gratitude to the show's loyal fans, saying, "The loyalty and love of 'Grey's Anatomy' fans has propelled us into a historic 21st season, and I could not be more grateful."
The renewal also signifies confidence in new showrunner Meg Marinis, who took over the reins in season 20. Rhimes praised Marinis' storytelling, calling it "a gift that continues to keep the show vibrant, compelling and alive."
Contracts for longtime cast members, including James Pickens Jr., Chandra Wilson, Kevin McKidd, Kim Raver, Camilla Luddington and Caterina Scorsone, are reportedly expiring this season. Negotiations for their new deals are expected to begin soon.
In addition to its long-running success on broadcast TV, Grey's Anatomy has enjoyed a resurgence on streaming platforms, regularly ranking in the Top 5 weekly Nielsen ratings. The series' library is available exclusively on Hulu, which offers all episodes from the current 20th season and all prior seasons.
The show's importance to the Disney brand was further emphasized with the recent launch of the "one-app experience," which includes Hulu as the only streamer offering the entire run of "Grey's Anatomy".
With its record-breaking renewal, "Grey's Anatomy" continues to be a cultural phenomenon, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. The upcoming 21st season promises to bring even more drama, compelling stories, and the beloved characters that have made the show a beloved staple of television history.
