Katherine Heigl returning to Grey's Anatomy? Heigl talks comeback rumors, Patrick Dempsey leaving

Katherine Heigl on Grey's Anatomy.(ABC)

Grey's Anatomy Season 12 is expected to air this year on September 24 and there are already rumors and discussions about cast members for the next season.

One of the rumors currently circulating is that of Katherine Heigl's comeback for her role as Dr. Isobel "Izzy" Stevens.

However, Heigl has made it clear that the rumors were just rumors and that she won't be coming back as Izzy. That's quite a disappointment for fans of her character.

The rumors began circulating when it was also rumored that Ellen Pompeo will be leaving the show.

Pompeo's contract with the hit medical drama is reported to end after season 12.

According to Master Herald, show executive producer Shonda Rhimes is plotting for a smooth exit for Pompeo.

A lot of fans couldn't imagine what the show would be like without Meredith Grey, as that would leave no more "Grey" to appear on the series.

Pompeo's exit is one of the reports that sparked the theory of having a familiar face return for the next season.

But it was already confirmed by Heigl, that she won't be that familiar face to make the comeback. When asked by Entertainment Tonight about any truth to the speculations, she just answered "there is not, I'm sorry," adding that she doesn't know how to answer the question.

However, she did have a say when it comes to former co-star Patrick Dempsey's exit from the series.

By the end of Season 11, fans worldwide were shocked to learn of the death of Dempsey's character, Derek Shepherd.

Apparently, Heigl was surprised as well and she said she couldn't imagine Grey's Anatomy without Derek, adding that "it's just so hard to picture."

So, it's made clear that Heigl won't be returning, but fans can see more of her with her upcoming film alongside Ben Barnes.

In her new film, Jackie and Ryan, fans will expect Heigl to sing onscreen. The story will be about a woman who is on a journey to rediscover her voice, as reported in Extra.

Jackie and Ryan will hit select theaters on July 3.