Coping Without McDreamy on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’: First Look at Meredith (PHOTO)

Season 12, the first without Patrick Dempsey’s Derek, finds a widowed Meredith (Ellen Pompeo, center) moving back into her mother’s old house and gaining two roommates: half-sister Maggie (Kelly McCreary) and sister-in-law Amelia (Caterina Scorsone). Naturally, that sets the stage for plenty of fresh drama. “Meredith is surrounded by single women who are dating and having a whole life, and she’s not interested in that,” executive producer Shonda Rhimes said at this summer’s Television Critics Association press tour. “It’s a weird rebirth of all the characters, but especially for Meredith.”

PLUS: Ask Matt: Can Meredith’s ‘Rebirth’ Keep Loyal Grey’s Fans Tuned In?

Grey’s Anatomy, Season premiere, Thursday, Sept. 24, 8/7c, ABC