"Grey's Anatomy" season 12 will premiere this coming fall and ahead of its release, show creator Shonda Rhimes is reportedly searching for a new doctor who could replace Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey).
According to TV Line, Rhimes is looking for a male actor who is between the age of 30 to 40 and who could be convincing to appear as a surgeon on the hit ABC series.
The same publication noted that Rhimes is requiring that the new onscreen doctor to be good looking and charismatic just like Derek Shepherd.
As of late, Rhimes has not yet cast the new doctor and fans are speculating that whoever will be tapped for the role will join "Grey's Anatomy" as Dempsey's replacement.
Rhimes has been mum about this speculation and at present, she has not yet confirmed or denied whether or not this is her purpose for casting the new doctor.
Meanwhile, other fans are speculating that the new doctor could possibly become Meredith Grey's (Ellen Pompeo) new love interest, Latin Post reported.
Such changes could be expected since Rhimes previously told various publications after Dempsey's exit that "Grey's Anatomy" could expect major changes in season 12.
Despite previously saying that no one could ever take the place of Derek on the series, it seems that Rhimes should now prioritize whatever it is that could save the show. Fans are still unhappy with her decision to axe the actor so hiring a new doctor could be one of her boldest moves for the upcoming season.
"Grey's Anatomy" season 12 will return to ABC this September.