The new promo of Grey’s Anatomy Season 22 Episode 4 teased the return of fan favorite character, Jackson Avery, played by Jesse Williams. Williams was one of the series regulars and left the show after Season 17. Season 22 of this long-running medical drama dropped on ABC on October 9, 2025.
Jesse Williams to return as Jackson Avery in Grey’s Anatomy Season 22 Episode 4
Actor Jesse Williams is coming back to Grey’s Anatomy in Episode 4 of Season 22, as teased in the new promo.
The promo, which was shown at the end of the previous episode, features Williams’ character Jackson Avery returning to Grey Sloan and being welcomed by the staff (via Deadline). Episode 4 is set to air on ABC on Thursday, October 30. Additionally, this will mark the fourth guest appearance by Williams on Grey’s Anatomy. The actor last appeared on the Season 21 premiere.
According to Entertainment Weekly, the logline of Season 22 Episode 4 states, “The interns juggle a bizarre trauma, while a complex breast reconstruction forces Meredith into a tense partnership.” This description does not provide any details regarding Williams’ return.
Williams announced his exit from the show in a statement to PEOPLE. He stated, “I will forever be grateful for the boundless opportunities provided me by Shonda (Rhimes), the network, studio, fellow cast mates, our incredible crew, Krista, Ellen, and Debbie.”
He further expressed that he was happy with the work he did on the show and said, “The experience and endurance born of creating nearly 300 hours of leading global television is a gift I’ll carry always.”
Williams asserted that he was proud of the impact he’s had on his fans through the show. He was also delighted to move forward in his career “with so many tools, opportunities, allies, and dear friends.”
Season 17 was the last time Williams’ character appeared on the show as a regular.
Originally reported by Ishita Verma on ComingSoon.
