Hit ABC medical drama Grey’s Anatomy has been renewed for season 21 by the network,

continuing records in the process. The show, which stars Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey,

alongside an ensemble cast, first premiered in 2005 and helped launch the careers of many

stars, including Katherine Heigl and Sandra Oh. Pompeo departed as a series regular in season 19 but continues to appear in some episodes, including the currently airing Grey’s Anatomy season 20.

Per Deadline,ABC has picked Grey’s Anatomy up for season 21. The announcement continues Grey’s Anatomy’s status as the longest-running primetime medical drama and ABC’s longest-running scripted show for primetime. Season 21 is expected to have 18 episodes. Creator Shonda Rhimes commented on the renewal and her faith in Meg Marinis, who became showrunner in season 20. Check out Rhimes’ comments below:

The loyalty and love of Grey’s Anatomy fans has propelled us into a historic 21st season, and I could not be more grateful. Meg Marinis’ storytelling is a gift that continues to keep the show vibrant, compelling and alive, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for next season.

Who Might Return For Grey’s Anatomy Season 21 & How Long Can The Show Continue?

Even after 20 seasons, Grey’s Anatomy clearly still has a dedicated fanbase, and the renewal shows that ABC believes the show can continue to grow. In recent seasons, Grey’s has taken on even more of an ensemble format than before, so there are plenty of cast members who could return for Grey’s Anatomy season 21, despite the fact that most of the main cast’s contracts are due to expire at the end of season 20.

Showing no signs of slowing down, Grey’s Anatomy has continued to endure in its genre, even though other medical dramas such as ER ran their course and came to an end. There is clearly a belief in the creativity and storytelling of the writing team, and that has propelled the series to success for such a long period. How long Grey’s Anatomy can continue to run for is anyone’s guess at this stage, but with Rhimes and Pompeo less involved now, the show could be heading toward a natural ending.

The move to renew so soon into season 20 is a positive thing for viewers, as it allows them to enjoy the current episodes without worrying they will be the end. While it seems unlikely Grey’sAnatomy will last many more seasons, the show’s future will largely depend on viewership, creative approaches to storylines, and the commitment of the actors to make the best show they possibly can.