Grey's Anatomy Season 23 Adds James Wolk as New Chief of Surgery

Grey's Anatomy returned for its 23rd season with a new face at the top of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital: Seth Norton, played by James Wolk, was introduced as the hospital's new chief of surgery in the season premiere, according to Screen Rant.

Norton is described as an outsider and is the first outside hire to hold the chief of surgery post at the hospital. He is the CEO of Olympic Regent Health and was behind Grey Sloan's VIP floor.

In the premiere, Meredith Grey warns against the hospital being led by a chief of surgery who puts money first, setting up a contrast between Norton's corporate background and the hospital's established leadership.

Wolk plays Norton in a recurring role in season 23. The position was left open after Teddy and Owen exited in the season 22 finale.

A post with a long history

Grey's Anatomy is now in its 23rd season, making it the longest-running primetime medical drama. Richard Webber had been chief for several years before the series began and was later removed by the board after Derek reported he had started drinking again, while Owen Hunt and then Miranda Bailey served as chief of surgery in earlier seasons.