Latest 'Grey's Anatomy' Season 12 suggest that Ellen Pompeo, who portrays the lead character of Meredith Grey in the long-running medical drama television series on ABC, may be departing from the series after the next season, as she is not renewing her contract. While the actress has reportedly said that she will be pursuing another project, show creator Shonda Rhimes is yet to confirm the rumors, reports Kdramastars.

Meanwhile, in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Shonda Rhimes indicated that 'Grey's Anatomy' fans will see a unusual side of Meredith Grey in the coming episodes of Season 12. After the death of her husband, Derek (Patrick Dempsey), Meredith will gradually learn to stand on her own feet without Cristina's support.

Describing Derek's death is an "incredibly important" character in "Grey's Anatomy," Rhimes told the publication that she never though of bidding adieu to McDreamy. At the same time, the show creator said pointed out that Derek and Meredith's love for each other is the perfect example of what modern love ought to be like.

Rhimes also hinted that Patrick Dempsye's departure from the series will not only affect Meredith, but certainly have a massive impact on the other cast members of the show.

Explaining further, the show creator said, "Now, Meredith and the entire 'Grey's Anatomy' family are about to enter uncharted territory as we head into this new chapter of her life." She added, "The possibilities for what may come are endless. As Ellis Grey would say, 'The carousel never stops turning'."

An earlier report in Kdramastars stated that the upcoming episodes of 'Grey's Anatomy' Season 12 will now focus on Meredith Grey's fight back against her Alzheimer's disease. According to Zap2It, 'though it was never shown in the past seasons, Grey's Anatomy' fans are already aware of Meredith's condition.

The report in Zap2It said, "As the show heads into Season 12, it's time to ask is Meredith's greatest battle about to begin? If you look back, the writers of 'Grey's' have been preparing for Meredith to develop Alzheimer's for several seasons but have been particularly heavy-handed in Season 11."