Sophia Bush (One Tree Hill, Chicago P.D.) has joined Grey’s Anatomy in season 21 as Dr. Cass Beckman, trauma surgeon from Seattle Presbyterian Hospital, per The Hollywood Reporter. In her first episode, Dr. Beckman meets up with Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital doctors Teddy Altman and Owen Hunt, played by Kim Raver (Third Watch, 24) and Kevin McKidd (Trainspotting), respectively, while out to dinner with her husband. Her husband David Beckman, played by Wil Traval (All Saints), is a cardiothoracic surgeon at Grey Sloan. When both David and Owen are called to the hospital due to an urgent trauma case, Teddy and Cass opt to stay and continue their evening, later relocating to a nearby bar for a more laid-back setting.
As they share drinks and burgers, the two doctors open up about their personal challenges. Teddy confides about the strain her marriage to Owen faces due to their intense work schedules, and Cass reveals that she and her husband maintain an open marriage to manage their demanding careers. The evening takes a surprising turn when Cass kisses Teddy, who gently pulls away and reminds Cass that her marriage with Owen is not open. Later, Teddy shares the incident with Owen, assuming he’d laugh, but he reacts angrily and leaves.
Though Bush’s role initially seemed like a one-time appearance, The Hollywood Reporter confirms that Dr. Cass Beckman will continue as a recurring character in season 21.
Known for her roles in One Tree Hill and Chicago P.D., Bush has also appeared in Love, Victor, This Is Us, Partners, John Tucker Must Die, False Positive and as a voice actor in Incredibles 2. She previously portrayed a doctor on Good Sam alongside Jason Isaacs (The Patriot, Black Hawk Down). Bush will also reprise her One Tree Hill character, Brooke Davis, in an upcoming sequel series, where she will serve as executive producer with former co-stars Hilarie Burton Morgan (Lethal Weapon, Our Very Own) and Danneel Ackles (Supernatural).
Grey’s Anatomy airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. on ABC, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day.