Kate Walsh Returns to Grey’s Anatomy in Season 22 Guest Role

Kate Walsh is returning to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. The actress will reprise her iconic role as Dr. Addison Montgomery. Her guest appearance is set for the current 22nd season of the hit ABC drama.

The news was officially confirmed by Shondaland. The production company shared the announcement on Instagram. Fans have been eagerly awaiting more classic character returns.

Addison Montgomery’s Scheduled Return and Fan Excitement

According to multiple entertainment outlets, Walsh will appear in the January 29 episode. The episode is titled “Strip That Down.” This marks her first return since a multi-episode arc in seasons 18 and 19.

Showrunner Meg Marinis had previously teased familiar faces would visit. She told The Hollywood Reporter about planned character visits in October. Meredith Grey is expected to interact with some returning figures.

Kate Walsh expressed her own excitement about coming back. She commented “Here we go” on the Shondaland post. Her return is a major event for long-time viewers of the series.

A Legacy Character’s Enduring Impact

Dr. Addison Montgomery first arrived in the season one finale. Her entrance is one of the show’s most memorable moments. She was a series regular until departing for the spin-off *Private Practice* in 2007.

Walsh starred in all six seasons of that successful spin-off. She reflected on the warm fan response to her last return in 2021. The actress told Variety it felt “beautiful” to step back into the role.

Her return continues the show’s strategy of weaving legacy characters into new stories. It provides a strong link to the series’ early history. This move often generates significant audience engagement and buzz.

Kate Walsh’s return to *Grey’s Anatomy* is a strategic nod to the show’s rich history and its passionate fanbase, ensuring the long-running drama continues to blend nostalgia with new narrative momentum.

Dropping this nugget your way

When will Kate Walsh appear on Grey’s Anatomy?

Kate Walsh is scheduled to appear in the episode airing January 29. The episode is part of the show’s 22nd season. Her return was confirmed by Shondaland in early December.

Has Kate Walsh been on Grey’s Anatomy recently?

Yes, she had a recurring role in seasons 18 and 19. Those appearances happened between 2021 and 2023. This new guest spot marks her first return since that story arc concluded.

What character does Kate Walsh play?

She plays the renowned neonatal surgeon Dr. Addison Montgomery. The character was first introduced as Derek Shepherd’s wife. She later led her own spin-off series, *Private Practice*.

Will other original cast members return this season?

Showrunner Meg Marinis confirmed a “couple of visits from old characters” are planned. Specific names beyond Kate Walsh have not been officially announced. Meredith Grey will interact with some returning faces.

Why is Kate Walsh’s return a big deal for fans?

Addison Montgomery is a foundational character from the show’s early peak. Her arrival in season one is an iconic TV moment. Her returns are celebrated events that connect new seasons to the original series.