Kate Walsh Returns to 'Grey's Anatomy' After Nearly 3 Years

The actress discusses her 'comfortable' return and her former costar Eric Dane's 'heartbreaking' ALS journey.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 12:07pm

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Kate Walsh reprised her role as Addison Montgomery on the January 29th episode of Grey's Anatomy, marking her first appearance on the show since 2023. In an interview, Walsh said being back on the set was 'like putting on a worn but comfortable glove' and discussed her former costar Eric Dane's ongoing battle with ALS, calling it 'heartbreaking'.

Why it matters

Walsh's return to Grey's Anatomy after a nearly 3-year absence is significant for fans of the long-running medical drama. Her character, Addison, was a fan-favorite and her reappearance is sure to generate excitement. Additionally, Walsh's comments about Dane's ALS diagnosis shed light on the challenges faced by the actor and his loved ones.

The details

In the January 29th episode, Walsh's character Addison Montgomery returned to assist her former sister-in-law Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) with a consult on a pregnant patient. Addison also confessed to Amelia that she's having marriage difficulties. Walsh said reprising the role of Addison felt 'like going home' and that she enjoyed working with the 'friends' she's had on the show since the beginning.

  • Kate Walsh returned as Addison Montgomery on the January 29, 2026 episode of Grey's Anatomy.
  • Walsh last appeared on Grey's Anatomy in 2023.

The players

Kate Walsh

An American actress who is best known for her role as Addison Montgomery on the medical drama Grey's Anatomy and its spin-off Private Practice.

Eric Dane

An American actor who is known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy. He is currently battling ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

Caterina Scorsone

An American actress who plays the role of Amelia Shepherd on Grey's Anatomy. She appeared alongside Walsh in the January 29th episode.

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What they’re saying

“There's a part of my psyche that will always be reserved space for Addison. It's so nice. It's more like putting on a worn but comfortable glove that I could just go right into. All the metaphors are just so cheesy, but it's like going home.”

— Kate Walsh (Variety)

“It's so painful. It's really sad. I haven't been in touch with him, but I've reached out and sent my love and support and strength. It's so heartbreaking.”

— Kate Walsh (Variety)

The takeaway

Kate Walsh's return to Grey's Anatomy after nearly 3 years away is a meaningful moment for fans of the long-running medical drama. Her comments about the 'comfortable' feeling of reprising her iconic role as Addison Montgomery, as well as her heartfelt words about her former co-star Eric Dane's ALS battle, provide insight into the enduring connections and challenges faced by the Grey's Anatomy family.