Caterina Scorsone Takes Sabbatical from Grey’s Anatomy After Explosive Finale

Los Angeles, CA — Caterina Scorsone, who plays Dr. Amelia Shepherd on ABC’s Grey's Anatomy, is taking a sabbatical following a dramatic Season 21 finale. The episode, titled “We Built This City,” aired on October 16, 2025, and left the Grey Sloan doctors reeling from a deadly explosion.

In the episode, Amelia is deeply affected after the mother of her patient, Dylan, causes the tragic blast that culminated in the death of Dr. Monica Beltran. Despite efforts from Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo, and Maggie Pierce, portrayed by Kelly McCreary, Amelia struggles to cope with her emotional turmoil. By the end of the episode, she announces her departure from the hospital for a much-needed break.

Sources indicate that Scorsone’s hiatus will span eight episodes, with her return expected in 2026. This marks a significant break for the series regular, as the show has recently revised its contract terms for veteran cast members, reducing their guaranteed appearances to 14 out of 18 episodes per season.

Amelia, who has been a fan favorite since her introduction in Season 7 and a key character in the show’s mythology, will only appear in 10 out of the season’s 18 episodes. The decision aligns with the character’s storyline as she takes time off following the trauma of the explosion.

Executive producer Meg Marinis discussed Amelia’s future during a recent interview, highlighting the character’s challenging journey and her medical decisions that led to the explosion’s aftermath. “We’ll see if her strive and desire to keep taking on medical cases continues after what happens to Dylan,” Marinis said.

This latest development adds yet another layer of complexity to the character, who has often battled personal and professional challenges. As viewers await Scorsone’s return, they can tune in to Grey’s Anatomy, which airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.