‘Grey’s Anatomy’: Ellen Pompeo Will Be in At Least Four Episodes of Season 20 (Exclusive)

Scott Speedman and Ellen Pompeo in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ ABC/RAYMOND LIU

Ellen Pompeo will be in more episodes of Grey’s Anatomy’s upcoming 20th season than expected.

Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that the actress behind the beloved character of Dr. Meredith Grey will appear in at least four episodes of the strikes-shortened season, with the possibility for more. Reps for ABC declined to comment.

As previously announced, Pompeo was not expected to have much — if any — of an onscreen role in the Shonda Rhimes-produced drama’s landmark 20th season. Pompeo was reduced from series regular to recurring after signing on to produce and star in a limited series for Hulu. That show, which remains untitled, is currently in pre-production.

In season 19, Pompeo appeared in less than 10 of the 20 episodes and was written out in the finale after moving to Boston. The actress, who has starred as the Grey in Grey’s Anatomy since 2005, is expected to continue to do her trademark voiceover for the show. Pompeo’s appearance in a teaser trailer for season 20 also generated headlines as sources say she has a big storyline that is set up in the upcoming premiere.

As for other season 20 tidbits, Jessica Capshaw will reprise her role as Arizona in what sources say will be just one episode.

Season 20 will consist of only 10 episodes after last year’s dual strikes delayed production and dramatically impacted the broadcast schedule. The new season also marks the first for Meg Marinis as showrunner after Krista Vernoff departed at the end of season 19. Marinis has been with Grey’s Anatomy since its third season and has worked her way up since beginning her tenure there as a writer’s production assistant. She then worked as a writer’s assistant and medical researcher before moving up the chain of command to executive producer, a title she’s held for the past four seasons. Marinis has written more than 25 episodes of the show.