Grey’s Anatomy Highlights Jesse Williams’ Jackson Following His Return

Grey’s Anatomy has creatively found another opportunity to highlight Jesse Williams’ beloved character, Jackson Avery, following his unexpected return earlier this season.

In the episode aired on Thursday, March 12, Mohanty (Anita Kalathara) mentioned to Kwan (Harry Shum Jr.) that she might have a chance to work for Jackson, as she had received word that he was reviewing her resume.

Jackson’s previous return to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital occurred in an October 2025 episode, where he assisted with a reconstructive surgery. Although he clashed with Meredith (Ellen Pompeo), the former colleagues resolved their differences before his departure.

At 44, Williams had previously reprised the role of Jackson in season 21 alongside his on-screen love, Sarah Drew, who portrays Dr. April Kepner. Fans closely followed Jackson and April’s romantic journey on the medical drama until Drew’s exit from the show in 2018, after nine seasons with co-star Jessica Capshaw (Arizona Robbins).

“The characters of Arizona and April are permanently woven into the fabric of Grey’s Anatomy thanks to the extraordinary work of Jessica Capshaw and Sarah Drew,” said then-showrunner Krista Vernoff in a statement at that time. “As writers, we must follow the stories as they unfold, which sometimes means parting ways with characters we cherish. It has been a joy and a privilege to collaborate with these incredibly talented actresses.”

Drew, 45, later shared with The Hollywood Reporter that Vernoff, 53, justified her character’s departure by stating, “she felt like April had endured so much and emerged stronger, and she wasn’t sure what more challenges she could put her through.”

In season 14, April married her ex, Matthew (Justin Bruening), and chose to leave her position at the hospital to focus on her faith, which frustrated fans hoping for a reconciled romance with ex-husband Jackson.

April and Jackson did manage to reconnect when Williams exited the series in May 2021. During season 17, Jackson relocated to Boston to manage his family’s foundation, with April following him along with their daughter, Harriet.

“I had a direct influence on the dialogue, especially in the recent episode where I went to find my dad. I was actively involved in crafting that language,” Williams disclosed to Entertainment Weekly about shaping his departure. “I know the character intimately. People come and go—writers and directors change—but I embody that character around the clock. So it’s truly gratifying that this was acknowledged and I felt included. It’s a privilege.”

The actor expressed gratitude to the writers for allowing him to contribute to the narrative arc that concluded his journey on Grey’s Anatomy.

“I feel deeply honored to have the chance to co-create a story with our writers that honors the character and those around him, connecting it to real-life experiences,” he noted. “It signifies a significant journey for him, particularly the personal facet of his relationship with his father, delving into self-improvement. That experience left a strong impression on me.”

Grey’s Anatomy airs on ABC Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu.