Grey's Anatomy fans vow to 'start watching again' as iconic One Tree Hill star joins the cast

The long-running hit medical drama Grey's Anatomy may have seen a dip in its viewership, but the show is set to inject some fresh excitement with a new addition to the cast.

Industry buzz from Deadline has confirmed that Sophia Bush, best known for her role on One Tree Hill, will appear as a trauma surgeon in an upcoming recurring role, possibly reinvigorating the series in its 21st season.

Following the planned exits of two major characters, Mika Yasuda (played by Midori Francis) and Levi Schmitt (Jake Borelli), Bush's entry has sparked a buzz among the fan community.

Despite a drop from its heyday when it consistently ranked among the top ten most-watched shows in America, the series still garnered an average of just over 5 million viewers per installment in its 20th season.

Some long-lost viewers are now showing renewed interest in returning to Grey's Anatomy, thanks to Bush's forthcoming appearance, reports the Mirror .

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"I haven't watched Grey's Anatomy since season 14 so ima need somebody to do a recap video so I don't physically have to watch it all," one such fan declared on X (formerly Twitter).

"okay maybe it's time to start watching greys again," agreed another, signaling a resurgence of former followers considering revisiting the show.

"This would make me start watching again," exclaimed another fan.

"I'm gonna need someone to tell me what's happened during the last 21 seasons of Grey's Anatomy so I can start watching to support our girl," another stated.

The casting of Bush for an upcoming role on the show has also sparked controversy among current fans, who are already voicing their concerns about the addition of another big name to the roster following the departures of characters Mika and Levi.

"They can't afford Jake Borelli and Midori Francis but can afford Sophia Bush? How?" a fan questioned on Reddit.

Another chimed in with skepticism, writing, "The show can't even write for the characters they have lol weren't there supposed to be budget cuts?"

Viewers are left to wonder how well Dr. Cass Beckman will mesh with the crew at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.

Her character details are broadly sketched out as an “amiable, fun and a little messy around the edges” trauma surgeon working for Seattle Presbyterian, according to Deadline.

Dr. Cass is noted to be married to David Beckman, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the same hospital; however, it's hinted that he might have a lesser role with no word yet on who will portray him.

Bush's character is slated to debut in the sixth episode of the 21st season, scheduled to hit screens on Thursday, November 7.

Grey’s Anatomy season 21 continues Thursdays on ABC.