Ellen Pompeo has inked a new deal to return to next season of “Grey’s Anatomy,” Variety has learned.
The “Grey’s Anatomy” star had signed a two-year contract back in 2014, which expired at the end of this season. This new deal guarantees that she’ll back for the 13th season of “Grey’s Anatomy,” which will air in fall 2016.
Pompeo is one of the hit medical drama’s remaining original cast members, following the recent departure of Sara Ramirez at the end of season 12, who announced she would be taking “some welcome time off.” Justin Chambers still remains, along with Chandra Wilson, Kevin McKidd, and James Pickens., Jr.
The Shonda Rhimes-produced “Grey’s” is enjoying a renaissance, proving a reliable performer for ABC in its Thursday night slot. The show has topped ratings, ending the season as Thursday’s top-rated series in key demographics. It’s also enjoyed a creative resurgence, despite the departure of co-lead Patrick Dempsey at the end of season 11, finding new storytelling opportunities in life for Meredith (Pompeo) without McDreamy.
Pompeo is one of TV’s highest-paid actors, earning over $300,000 per episode. She also recently won the People’s Choice Award for “favorite dramatic TV actress” for her role on the ABC drama.
Pompeo is repped by CAA, John Carrabino and Hansen Jacobson.
