‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star Caterina Scorsone steps away from series until 2026

Grey’s Anatomy will see a temporary cast reduction as Caterina Scorsone, who plays Dr. Amelia Shepherd, takes a break from the long running ABC medical drama as the actress is expected to return in 2026.

In the October 16 episode, Amelia revealed she was taking a sabbatical following the hospital explosion that concluded season 21 and claimed the life of Dr. Monica Beltran played by Natalie Morales.

The storyline reflects Amelia’s emotional recovery from the tragedy and serves as the on-screen reason for Scorsone’s departure.

According to Deadline, Scorsone will appear in 10 of the current season’s 18 episodes as the reduction is part of ABC’s broader cost-cutting strategy, which began in the 2024–25 season and lowers the guaranteed episode counts for veteran cast members.

This approach mirrors a growing trend among long-running shows looking to manage production expenses while maintaining ensemble casts.

Grey’s Anatomy previously reduced regular appearances from 18 to 14 episodes per season with some exceptions for key storylines.

Scorsone joined the show in season seven, reprising her role as Amelia from private practice.

As the sister of the late Derek Shepherd and sister-in-law to Meredith Grey as Amelia has been a central figure known for her strength and complex backstory.

Despite her temporary exit, the character is expected to make her return to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital in 2026.

The series continues to air Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on ABC and streams online afterwards.