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Oh, darlings, get ready for a splash of new queer energy in the hallowed halls of Grey Sloan Memorial! Michael Thomas Grant, the ever-charming talent we loved as Leif on Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, is making a grand entrance into our Thursday night favorite, Grey’s Anatomy. In the upcoming 21st season, Grant will step into the role of James, the hospital’s new “openly gay Episcopal” chaplain, and honey, he’s about to bring both spirit and heart to the mix.
We got the scoop thanks to TVLine, and our hearts haven’t stopped racing! James is described as a chaplain with a special soft spot for the younger patients. With his warmth, training, and spiritual depth, he’s the kind of guy who’s ready to offer comfort in the most challenging situations—and let’s be real, that’s exactly what you need at Grey Sloan! But here’s the kicker, my loves: James isn’t just about tending to others. He’s at a crossroads in his life, open to love and possibly ready to take some leaps of faith. Oh, the romance potential is palpable!
Michael took to Instagram to share his excitement, and in true Grey’s style, he paired his announcement with The Fray’s “How to Save a Life.” (Could there be a more iconic song for this show?) “Hey, it’s me!” he exclaimed, brimming with enthusiasm. And really, how could he not be? Joining this cast is practically a rite of passage in the TV world, especially when stepping into a role that’s not only groundbreaking but also incredibly relevant.
+Related: Gay Actor Jake Borelli May Bid Farewell to ‘Grey’s Anatomy’
Now, for those of you who might have been in a bubble the past few years, Grant isn’t just some new face. He was an absolute delight on Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, where he brought us joy and some serious feels as Leif, alongside Jane Levy and Skylar Astin. And let’s not forget that unforgettable duet with Alex Newell—talk about making our hearts sing! Even after the show’s abrupt end in 2021, he blessed us one last time with Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas.
But back to Grey’s. We know that our beloved Dr. Levi Schmitt (played by Jake Borelli) is taking a step back this season, which, let’s be honest, is still a bit of a heartbreaker. Jake’s portrayal of Levi gave us one of the most genuine, emotional LGBTQ+ storylines on TV, and we’ll miss seeing him scrub in regularly. Thankfully, Jake will be around for a few more episodes in season 21 to give Levi the send-off he deserves. And while his exit leaves some big shoes to fill, we can’t help but feel that Michael Thomas Grant is ready to step up and bring something fresh and wonderful to the table.
In other big Grey’s news, can we talk about Jason George’s return? After a fiery stint (pun intended) on Station 19, he’s coming back to the OG show as Dr. Ben Warren, and we’re already planning our watch parties for his reunion with Miranda Bailey (the iconic Chandra Wilson). And if that weren’t enough, Ellen Pompeo is set to grace our screens more frequently this season, which means more Meredith Grey wisdom to keep us going.
So, mark your calendars for September 26 at 10 p.m. ET because Grey’s Anatomy season 21 is gearing up to be one for the books. With Michael Thomas Grant bringing his warmth and charm as James, the new gay chaplain, and all the other surprises in store, we’re in for an emotional rollercoaster—and we can’t wait to get on board!