Grey’s Anatomy season 21 is adding a new character with a timely connection to a series regular. Heading into the new season of the long-running medical drama, it was known that two cast members would be departing in Grey’s Anatomy season 21. However, rather than briefly address their absence or handle it off-screen, it was promised that Mika Yasuda (Midori Francis) and Levi Schmidt (Jake Borelli) would receive departures that honor their characters.
Deadline reveals that Grey’s Anatomy season 21 has cast Julia Rose in the recurring role of Chloe Yasuda, Mika’s sister. The new character will make her first appearance in the season 21. episode 4, which airs October 17 at 10 PM ET on ABC, and streams on Hulu. Chloe will appear in four episodes overall.
Chloe, the first of Mika’s eight siblings to be introduced, is described as witty and possessing a great sense of humor. She has been admitted to Grey Sloan as a patient and, personality-wise, Chloe is a bit of a high-stress honor student. She’s the VP of student activities and runs varsity cross-country at her college. Prior to joining Grey’s, Rose played Crystal in the FX series Baskets which starred Zach Galifianakis.
What The New Casting Means For Grey’s Anatomy Season 21
This Could Be How Mika Leaves
Francis’ departure was first reported in May, with the actor wanting to pursue other opportunities. On the whole, Mika is in a good place professionally and personally. Although the interns have caused headaches for the Grey Sloan veterans, particularly in the Grey’s Anatomy season 20 ending, Mika’s relationship with Jules Millin (Adelaide Kane) is moving apace.
Although it remains speculative, it could be the case that Chloe’s stint at Grey Sloan takes an unexpected turn that causes Mika to reevaluate what she wants out of her life. On the more extreme end, Chloe could die. But more generally, this temporarily recurring character might help Mika realize that she needs a change. But more immediately, and away from speculation, Chloe’s presence means Mika will likely be sticking around for at least four more episodes.
Our Take On Grey’s New Casting
This Is Why The Show Remains Beloved
Even though Mika is a relatively smaller and newer Grey’s Anatomy character, when stacked up against the show’s long history, the series is taking steps to set up her farewell meaningfully. This is a stark contrast to other dramas, with Law & Order coming to mind, where former regulars disappear off-screen and get a few scenes of explanation about where they went. After two decades and over 400 episodes, the genre-revitalizing series still rewards viewers who have invested in its heightened world. That’s part of the reason it’s still going strong.