Considering that Shonda Rhimes revealed that the fate of "Grey's Anatomy" lies in its lead star Ellen Pompeo, fans of the long-running medical drama series can now breathe a sigh of relief after the actress's rep confirmed that she signed on to reprise her role as Meredith Grey for season 13.
Deadline confirmed that Pompeo closed another deal after her contract expired at the end of season 12. At the moment, only Sara Ramirez announced that she will no longer appear, as Callie Torres, next season while others like Justin Chambers, Kevin McKidd, Chandra Wilson and James Pickens Jr. said that they will renew their contract with the show.
Rhimes earlier announced in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that if Pompeo would not renew her contract, it would mean that there would be no point in moving forward with another "Grey's Anatomy" season.
"I'm always surprised when Ellen is ready to re-up," the executive producer said." Our pact is that we will go together. When she goes, I go."
Meanwhile, Callie's exit also means that her new girlfriend Penny Blake (Samantha Sloyan) will also be absent in season 13.
According to a spoiler from TVLine, it would not be a surprise if Penny will also have to depart from the show.
"Seeing as how she and Callie are sort of a package deal, I can confirm that we've seen the last of Penny. For now, anyway," Ausiello wrote in the publication. "Shonda Rhimes left the door wide open for Sara Ramirez to make the occasional guest appearance as Callie shuttles Sophia back and forth between New York and Seattle, and I suppose Penny — and her portrayer Samantha Sloyan — could tag along on one of those trips. I wouldn't hold my breath, though."
Rhimes remains tightlipped about where Meredith and the rest of the doctors from the Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital will head to when "Grey's Anatomy" season 13 returns to ABC.
