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Jason George has addressed speculation regarding his potential return to Grey’s Anatomy for its upcoming 23rd season, following a series of significant cast departures.
“I think I can confirm that Ben is coming back,” George, 54, shared in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly at the MPTF NextGen Summer Party on May 31. He expressed confidence about reprising his role in the beloved series, stating, “I’m pretty certain I’m coming back.”
Having portrayed Ben since 2010, George commended the show’s writers and producers for their adeptness at allowing the narrative to progress. He remarked, “They’re not afraid to make bold decisions about the storyline to ensure it remains dynamic and captivating, yet they approach these changes with respect.”
The actor delved into how cast departures are managed within the series.
As Grey’s Anatomy gears up for its 23rd season, some familiar faces may not be returning. This season has already witnessed considerable turnover among its cast. The unexpected demise of Monica, played by Natalie Morales, earlier this season, coupled with Amelia’s (Caterina Scorsone) decision to take a break, has left fans bracing for more changes.
“As early as possible — as soon as you’re thinking about it — you’ll get a call and a conversation,” he explained. “I remember when I got called to do the spinoff for Station 19. I thought it was a call to [say], ‘Sorry, man, we’re writing Ben off the show.’”
George continued: “I’m thankful because there are shows in Hollywood — you hear the stories — where you find out that you’re leaving the show at the table read. You’re completely notably blindsided. I love the fact that my bosses try to give as much respect as possible in that regard.”
Going into season 23, George is “not worried” about a potential looming exit.
“Every show that gets on the air gets canceled someday,” he continued. “It’s just a matter of if people treat it with respect while you’re going along the path. So that’s what I have and that’s a good time.”
Season 22 of Grey’s Anatomy faced plenty of cast shakeups as the show reduced the minimum guarantees for its veteran cast members to 14 out of its 18 episodes per season. Kim Raver and Kevin McKidd, meanwhile, surprised viewers when they exited the show.
Katherine Heigl, Patrick Dempsey, Justin Chambers and more stars have left Grey’s Anatomy — for various reasons. Created by Shonda Rhimes and starring Ellen Pompeo, Grey’s Anatomy debuted on ABC in 2005. Pompeo (Meredith Grey) left the show as a series regular following season 19 but continued to provide voiceover narration and make special guest […]
“I don’t think they’re going to make a move in the first few episodes. But Kim and Kevin are some of the best people I’ve met my entire time in Hollywood,” George continued during his interview with Us. “We’re dear friends off camera. … I’m sad to see them go. But the fun part is that they’re always gonna be my life.”
Looking ahead, George showed support for the idea of Ben taking a break at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital to appear on the new ABC spinoff slated for a 2027 debut, adding, “[He] should visit Texas at some point in time because he has the skill sets of an EMT, firefighter, anesthesiologist and a surgeon. What else do you need? He’s an entire department unto himself so he should pop into Texas for a heartbeat. I want Ben to keep exploring.”
Grey’s Anatomy is streaming on ABC.