Since its debut on March 27, 2005, Grey's Anatomy has garnered a loyal fanbase. As it moves into the 21st season, it now treads more significantly with evolution. This season, as reported by Entertainment Weekly in an August 15, 2024 article, Grey's Anatomy welcomes back Dr. Sydney Heron, portrayed by Kali Rocha, who was last featured in Season 4.
The actress's return was confirmed in April 2024 after the show received confirmation for its 21st season. Fans look forward to discovering how Sydney's return will cut into the current Grey's Anatomy plot.
Dr. Sydney Heron's past is rife with experiences and love interests that could enhance the view of long-term viewers by infusing it with different perspectives and emotional resonance.
When did we last see Dr. Sydney Heron in Grey's Anatomy?
Dr. Sydney Heron, a character played by Kali Rocha, was last seen on Grey's Anatomy on November 8, 2007, in Season 4, Episode 8. Her return has been confirmed for Grey's Anatomy Season 21, which will premiere on September 26, 2024.
Sydney was introduced in Season 2 as a fourth-year resident initially assigned to supervise interns while Dr. Miranda Bailey was on maternity leave. Her character was chirpy, contrary to most of her colleagues, especially Cristina Yang.
During her run, Sydney became part of many storylines, such as being one of the people Izzie Stevens turned to for emotional support after Denny Duquette's death and the awkward moment with Derek Shepherd.
Following her departure in 2007, Kali Rocha kept busy with various television and film acting jobs. Most notably, she starred as Karen Rooney in Disney Channel's Liv and Maddie from 2013 through 2017. She has also guest-starred as Marcy on Man with a Plan since 2016.
She guest-starred in many other series, such as:
- CSI: Crime Scene Investigation in 2012
- Waco: The Aftermath in 2023
Rocha voiced animated projects, including Harvey Girls Forever! in 2019, where she voiced Marie Curie. In 2024, she is lined up to be featured in the series That Girl Lay Lay and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Grey's Anatomy fans are interested in the development of Sydney's character, especially after the dramatic Season 20 finale, which left several main characters unsure of their futures.
Which other characters are returning for Grey's Anatomy Season 21?
Season 21 will feature some old friends returning, including Kali Rocha as Dr. Sydney Heron. Ellen Pompeo is set to return in at least seven episodes as her iconic character, Dr. Meredith Grey, despite the conclusion of her status as a full-time leading lady at the end of Season 19. There are even rumors of more—up to 14 episodes.
Jason George returns as Dr. Ben Warren, in a comeback since the cancellation of the spinoff Station 19, to which he had been attached as a series regular since 2018. His return is expected to further develop scenes with Miranda Bailey, played by Chandra Wilson.
Other returning cast members include:
- Chandra Wilson as Dr. Miranda Bailey
- James Pickens Jr. as Dr. Richard Webber
- Camilla Luddington as Dr. Jo Wilson
- Kevin McKidd as Dr. Owen Hunt
- Caterina Scorsone as Dr. Amelia Shepherd
- Kim Raver as Dr. Teddy Altman
- Harry Shum Jr. as Dr. Benson "Blue" Kwan
- Adelaide Kane as Dr. Jules Millin
- Niko Terho as Dr. Lucas Adams
- Alexis Floyd as Dr. Simone Griffith
- Chris Cormack as Dr. Atticus Lincoln
- Jaicy Elliot as Dr. Taryn Helm
- Debby Allen as Dr. Catherine Fox
- Michael Thomas Grant as Chaplain James
Scott Speedman, who plays Dr. Nick Marsh, returns for at least five episodes. Meanwhile, Jake Borelli and Midori Francis will not play a significant role in the plot of Grey's Anatomy Season 21. Instead, they will return briefly to wrap up their storylines.
Grey's Anatomy Season 21 will premiere on ABC on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 10 p.m. ET. The next day, new episodes will stream on Hulu.
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