A longtime Grey’s Anatomy favorite is stepping back into the series after an extended absence. With her last appearance happening several seasons ago, questions circulated about whether the character would return to the surgical drama. The actress ultimately confirmed her comeback, marking a significant moment for the show’s ongoing 22nd season.
Dr. Addison Montgomery returns to Grey’s Anatomy in Season 22
Variety exclusively reported that Kate Walsh’s Dr. Addison Montgomery will appear in an episode titled “Strip That Down,” scheduled to air on January 29, 2026. This marks her first appearance since Season 19, where she featured in the episode Gunpowder and Lead.
Kate Walsh originally joined Grey’s Anatomy in Season 1 and was a series regular through Season 3. She continued making guest appearances through Season 8 while also leading the spinoff Private Practice for six seasons from 2007 to 2013. She returned in a recurring capacity for Seasons 18 and 19.
Since her last appearance on Grey’s Anatomy, Walsh has starred in several projects including the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, Emily in Paris, and The Umbrella Academy. In 2024, she performed in the world premiere of Jordans at The Public Theatre. Steven Pink directs Kate Walsh’s upcoming film What the F-ck Is My Password?, which features Alexander Ludwig, Stephen Dorff, Kal Penn, and Adam Pally.
ABC began airing Grey’s Anatomy Season 22 on October 9, 2025. The network features the series as a cornerstone of its programming. Other dramas in the lineup include High Potential, 9-1-1, and 9-1-1: Nashville. Comedies such as Abbott Elementary and Shifting Gears also anchor the schedule. Gersh, Untitled, and Yorn Levine Barnes represent Walsh.
ABC has not released plot details for the January 29 episode. Addison Montgomery’s return follows her pattern of periodic appearances since her original departure. These appearances keep her present in the show’s evolving storyline.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.
