Grey's Anatomy has had its fair share of celebrity guest stars over the years, including Demi Lovato, Mandy Moore, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Elisabeth Moss. But now, one of the show's stars is aiming higher than ever, fighting to bring Oscar-winning icon Denzel Washington to Grey Sloan Memorial. The idea has fans buzzing, and if it comes to fruition, it could mark one of the most legendary guest appearances in the show's history. I don't know about you, but I'd personally drop everything to watch Denzel walk the halls of Grey Sloan even if it's just for one unforgettable episode. Who's with me?
On May 18, Jason George, who is best known for starring as Dr. Ben Warren in the popular medical drama series, attended the 2025 Emmys Pickleball Slam fundraiser. While there, he spoke with the New York Post about that one special day in 2016 on the Grey's set when Washington stepped behind the camera to direct the powerful season 12 episode, "The Sound of Silence."
He describes how everyone on set was on their "best behavior" that day, something that they already maintain regularly, but with Washington directing, the level of professionalism and focus was noticeably heightened. He even mentions that some of the female cast members were particularly energized and excited, so much so that they arrived on set early in the morning dressed up more than usual. George shared how he was shocked by the unexpected level of enthusiasm and joked that this kind of effort wasn’t typical for their usual mornings.
“First off, the women showed up dressed up at 5 a.m. in the morning. I was like, ‘Y’all don’t dress up for us on the regular.’"
George then went on to express his own desire for Washington to come back to the Grey's set, but instead of being behind the camera, he hopes to see him step in front of it. What type of role would he like to see him play? Well, George tells the New York Post that he envisions Washington taking on a "prestigious role" in the series. A role that commands respect, someone like a top-notch doctor who instantly impresses everyone at Grey Sloan Memorial.
"I'm hoping he does it. It’s Denzel. He’s got to come in as the doctor who is that dude, and everyone’s geeked out and excited about him. He’s got to come in as the expert.”
Truthfully, a role such as this is fitting for an actor who is already known for portraying powerful characters in his acting career. The tricky part is actually getting Washington on board. The Oscar winner is a pretty busy man, with him currently booked for two Netflix movies. Also, who's to say that he even wants to come back to television after focusing mostly on film? His last TV gig was directing that one episode of Grey's Anatomy. But still, one can only hope that he might reconsider and grace the small screen again. If that day ever comes, it would surely be a monumental moment for the show.
Grey's Anatomy season 22 is slated to air on ABC this fall.