Kate Walsh Says Reprising Her “Grey’s Anatomy” Role, Even Only for a ‘Hot Minute,’ Felt ‘Like Going Home’ (Exclusive)

**Kate Walsh Returns as Dr. Addison Montgomery in Grey’s Anatomy: A Nostalgic Homecoming**

Actress Kate Walsh recently made a triumphant return to the beloved medical drama, Grey’s Anatomy, reprising her role as Dr. Addison Montgomery during the season 22 episode titled “Strip That Down,” which aired on January 29. Fans of the long-running series were delighted by her brief appearance, marking an event that Walsh described as feeling “like going home.”

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the opening night of the 2026 US Open in New York, Walsh spoke candidly about her decision to revisit her iconic character after stepping away for several years. She remarked on the warm familiarity of returning to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, saying her return was a “pop-in” for just a “hot minute.”

Walsh first graced the screens of Grey’s Anatomy in the finale of the show’s inaugural season and went on to become a central character in the spinoff series Private Practice, which aired from 2007 to 2013. Her tenure as Addison has created an undeniable bond with fans and the show itself. When asked what motivates her to don Addison’s scrubs once more, she pinpointed the influence of Grey’s creator Shonda Rhimes, calling her work extraordinary.

“The fact that it’s Shondaland, it’s Shonda, everything she writes,” Walsh articulated, acknowledging the creative powerhouse behind the show. She also expressed her admiration for current showrunner Meg Marinis, praising the excellent writing and continuity that ensures Addison remains an integral part of the narrative.

During her conversation with PEOPLE, Walsh likened returning to Grey’s Anatomy to “slipping back in like a little fish in the stream.” She expressed excitement over the show’s enduring success and the joy it brings to its audience. “I’m just so thrilled for everyone who’s on the show and all the writers and Meg Marinis. That it’s going on and that the fans love it so much. It’s really exciting,” she said.

In the recent episode, Dr. Montgomery comes out of her sabbatical when her former sister-in-law, Amelia, played by Caterina Scorsone, calls on her expertise to assist with a complicated case concerning a pregnant woman. During the episode, Walsh’s character also opens up about struggles in her personal life, revealing difficulties in her marriage, adding depth to her character amidst the medical drama.

This latest return is not Walsh’s first cameo in the recent seasons. She has previously appeared as Addison in seasons 18 and 19, demonstrating her desire to reconnect with the character and the show’s legacy. Since initially departing Grey’s Anatomy in season 3, Walsh’s return in any capacity has been celebrated by viewers who hold a soft spot for the character who has continued to evolve over the years.

In a complimentary discussion with Shondaland, Walsh hinted at the possibility of further appearances in the future, suggesting that discussions about her character’s fate are always ongoing. “I love it. We’re always talking. I don’t know what is going to happen, but I’m always open to it,” she shared.

Walsh conveyed the ease with which she steps back into Addison’s shoes, thanks in part to her extensive history with the character. “There’s also some weird part of my psyche and brain that is reserved for Addison — it’s just there. I don’t have to think about the acting as much,” she reflected, emphasising her deep connection with the role after two decades.

Amidst the chaotic and emotional storylines that Grey’s Anatomy is known for, Walsh’s return has reignited a sense of nostalgia and excitement among longtime fans. As Grey’s Anatomy continues to thrive, the future remains bright for both the show and its beloved characters. For now, viewers can look forward to more moments featuring Dr. Addison Montgomery, whose legacy within the series is as dynamic and compelling as ever.

As Grey’s Anatomy pushes onward, the anticipation of Walsh’s potential return will surely keep fans engaged, eager to see how the beloved physician weaves into the ever-expanding tapestry of the show’s intricate storylines.