Grey’s Anatomy character set to return after 17 years away

We're just a little over a month away until the latest season of everyone's favourite hospital drama graces our screens once again.

Next month (26 September), the 21st season of Grey's Anatomy will be premiering and fans can't wait to see what's next in store at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.

However, while we'll be treated to a bunch of familiar faces and long-term series regulars - one particular character's return after nearly two decades away has proved to be quite the 'shock'.

Grey's Anatomy has now cemented its status as the longest-running primetime medical drama, and ABC's longest-running primetime scripted series.

Considering it first entered out lives back in 2005, that's a pretty impressive feat.

Let's rewind 17 years back, during season two of the show, when we were first introduced to Dr. Sydney Heron played by Kali Rocha.

Kali's character was a fourth-year resident responsible for overseeing the interns, was introduced after Miranda Bailey (played by Chandra Wilson) left on maternity leave.

Dr. Heron was tasked with the responsibility of looking after her interns including the likes of Sandra Oh's Cristina Yang, Ellen Pompeo's Meredith Grey and Katherine Heigl's Izzie Stevens.

Kali Rocha as Dr. Sydney Heron. (Craig Sjodin / Contributor / Getty Images)

She stuck around a bit for a few more seasons and even went on a date with Dr Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey) in her final appearance in season four.

But the actress is now returning and will be reprising her role for the upcoming season 21.

The show's creator Shonda Rhimes took to Instagram to celebrate the news a few months back that Grey's Anatomy would be returning for another season.

She shared a throwback snap of the cast celebrating their 250th episode, captioning it: "This picture was taken in 2015.

"To still be on your screens, in your living rooms, and in your hearts almost ten years later - words cannot express my gratitude.

Dr. Sydney Heron's last appearance was in season four. (Ron Tom / Contributor / Getty Images)

"Grey’s was something I made up 20+ years ago, and I am so incredibly proud that it’s been picked up for its 21st season.

"This honestly could not be possible without you guys..caring about the stories I tell, the talented cast, writers, and crew. Wow."

Needless to say, we're all extremely excited to sink our teeth into the latest instalment.

Grey's Anatomy season 21 will premiere next month (26 September) on ABC in the US.

All previous seasons of Grey's Anatomy are available to stream on Disney+ in the UK