'Grey's' fans, which were taken for the ride of their lives during the season 8 finale, have been bubbling with anticipation for the show's season nine premiere later this month. Spoilers for the upcoming season have been trickling out from producers and cast members alike since the season eight finale.
The May finale featured the doctors of Seattle Grace-Mercy West plunge in a horrific fatal plan crash that left Dr. Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh) dead under the wreckage and several other key characters at death's doorstep.
As reported earlier, the only confirmed departure from the show apart from Leigh is that of actor Eric Dane, who announced his departure in July. Dane played Leigh's on-screen love interest, Dr. Mark Sloan, or Dr. McSteamy, and Dr. Derek Shepherd's (Patrick Dempsey) best friend.
Despite Dane's departure announcement, a recent tweet by Dempsey may have hinted at the actor's presence in the first episode back. Rumors over the fate of the rest of the doctors, in particular Dr. Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw), have also been discussed.
Fans have flooded the show's Facebook page clamoring for more information about the new season in anticipation for its September 27 premiere. On Tuesday, fan Krista Bryd wrote, "OMG CANT WAIT TO WATCH THIS NEW SEASON...WHAT A CLIFFHANGER TO STUCK US WITH LAST SEASON!"
Executive producer and show creator Shonda Rhimes did give fans some spoilers, telling TV Guide exclusively that the show has confirmed at least three new guest stars, including Tina Majorino, Gaius Charles and Camilla Luddington. TV Line also confirmed that actress Jerrika Hinton is the newest Seattle Grace-Mercy West intern.
Despite ongoing spoilers released, fans say they cannot wait for the show's return. 'Grey's' fan Ciara Kidd wrote on the show's Facebook page, "Grey's Anatomy, PLEASE hurry and come back! There isn't anything good on tv!! I've been patiently waiting & I want to watch some sexy men on my tv screen!"
Kidd and her fellow 'Grey's' fans can watch the season 9 premiere on September 27 at 9 p.m. EST on ABC.
WATCH PATRICK DEMPSEY TALK ABOUT HIS SPOILERS MISHAP