Grey's Anatomy season 21 release date finally confirmed - but there are some huge changes

Fans of Grey's Anatomy have cause for celebration as the return date for the popular ABC drama has been confirmed.

The much-anticipated 21st season is set to premiere this September, according to TVLine.

The show, which continues to draw millions of viewers, follows the medical residents at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, including the iconic Meredith Grey (played by Ellen Pompeo).

Despite taking a step back in recent years following Meredith's coma and surprising decision to relocate to Boston, it has been confirmed that Pompeo will have a more significant role in the upcoming season.

However, viewers should brace themselves for some major changes when the series returns, including a schedule reshuffle.

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The premiere of Grey's Anatomy's 21st season will take place on Thursday, September 26, but not at its usual time.

Instead of its regular 9pm slot, the series will now air at 10pm Eastern Time in the US.

Taking over its previous timeslot is the new medical drama Dr Odyssey, set on a luxury cruise ship and produced by American Horror Story creator Ryan Murphy. It stars Joshua Jackson and Don Johnson.

New episodes of the 21st season of Grey's Anatomy will continue to air every Thursday, although fans should anticipate some midseason breaks around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The upcoming season of Grey's Anatomy will also be slightly shorter than usual, with producers confirming 18 episodes instead of the typical 20+. This is still an increase from the previous season, which was reduced to just 10 episodes due to strikes by Hollywood writers and actors.

UK fans can catch up on all the drama following the ABC broadcast on Disney+.

While a specific UK release date for the new season hasn't been announced, episodes typically air just two weeks after their initial US broadcast.

The premiere date isn't the only significant change for Grey's Anatomy this year.

Actors Jake Borelli (Levi Schmitt) and Midori Francis (Mika Yasuda) are set to leave the show during the next season. Additionally, some long-standing cast members have yet to renew their contracts, suggesting there may be more unexpected departures ahead.

However, TV star Ellen has increased her appearances to at least seven episodes. According to TVLine, she could feature in as many as 14 episodes throughout the season.

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