The doctors of Grey Sloan Memorial are back in the most dramatic way possible. Grey’s Anatomy Season 22 has officially arrived, picking up right after the devastating hospital explosion that left fans wondering about the fate of their favorite characters. The premiere episode, titled “Only the Strong Survive,” launches directly into the chaos, with the staff scrambling to save lives in the wreckage of their own hospital.
When and Where to Watch
The Season 22 premiere aired on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 10/9c on ABC. The show continues its long-standing tradition of occupying the Thursday night slot, following 9-1-1: Nashville.
For viewers who prefer streaming, new episodes become available on Hulu the day after they air on ABC. This means the premiere is now available to stream on the platform. Additionally, episodes can be found on ABC’s official website and app shortly after the live broadcast concludes.
Some sources also note that free streaming is available in Canada on CTV.ca the day after the U.S. premiere. For viewers who have missed the live broadcast, checking ABC.com a week later is another option to catch up for free.
The Aftermath of the Explosion
The Season 21 finale left the hospital in ruins and multiple lives hanging in the balance. The new season begins with no time jump, throwing viewers directly into the immediate aftermath. The official logline for the premiere states:
After the catastrophic hospital explosion, Grey Sloan’s staff scrambles to save not only their patients’ lives but also their own. Confronted with impossible surgical decisions and emotional turmoil, they fight to preserve life amid devastation.
The explosion was triggered when a disgruntled patient’s mother leaked acetylene gas into an operating room. The situation was made worse when Dr. Atticus “Link” Lincoln’s surgical tools apparently ignited the initial spark, placing him directly in the danger zone.
Which Characters Are Safe?
The cliffhanger left almost every character in peril. However, promotional materials and behind-the-scenes reports have confirmed that several key doctors survived the blast.
Confirmed returnees for Season 22 include:
- Ellen Pompeo as Dr. Meredith Grey
- Chandra Wilson as Dr. Miranda Bailey
- James Pickens Jr. as Dr. Richard Webber
- Kevin McKidd as Dr. Owen Hunt
- Kim Raver as Dr. Teddy Altman
- Caterina Scorsone as Dr. Amelia Shepherd
- Camilla Luddington as Dr. Jo Wilson
- Anthony Hill as Dr. Winston Ndugu
- Alexis Floyd as Dr. Simone Griffith
- Harry Shum Jr. as Dr. Benson “Blue” Kwan
The fate of some characters remains a central mystery. The show has a history of twisting happiness, and Dr. Link Lincoln is in significant danger after being at the epicenter of the blast. His situation is especially tragic as it comes just hours after he learned he and his new wife, Jo, are expecting twin daughters.
Other characters whose safety is uncertain include Dr. Jules Millin and Dr. Monica Beltran, who were last seen on the surgical floor where the explosion occurred. The fate of original characters Dr. Richard Webber and Dr. Miranda Bailey also had fans worried, though they have been confirmed to return.
A Milestone Season and Returning Faces
Season 22 is set to be a significant one for the long-running series. The second episode of the season, airing on October 16, will be the show’s 450th overall episode. This extends Grey’s Anatomy’s record as the longest-running American primetime medical drama.
Ellen Pompeo continues as the narrator of the series and will appear in several episodes this season, though not in a full-time capacity. Her on-screen love interest, Dr. Nick Marsh, played by Scott Speedman, will also make part-time returns. Furthermore, Trevor Jackson, who appeared in the Season 21 finale, will have his character’s name revealed and is expected to have a larger role.
The season is expected to run for 18 episodes, matching the length of the previous season. Showrunner Meg Marinis returns for her third year in charge, ensuring continuity for the series.
Also Read: Grey’s Anatomy Season 22: Is Dr. Richard Webber in Danger After the Explosion?
