There's been plenty of drama to keep us occupied in her absence, but with the second half of the season in full swing, Grey's Anatomy fans are wondering about Katherine Heigl.

What is her status? Is she ever returning to the show? When she is back, will she just leave at the end of the season? According to EW, she’s due back on set later this month.

That means we probably won’t see Izzie again until late April, and coincidentally, that’s right around the time a new, special patient will check into Seattle Grace: Alex’s brother.

Sources say Grey’s Anatomy is currently casting the role of Karev’s estranged sibling - the first member of the character's supposedly troubled family we will meet in six seasons.

The next round of Izzie-Alex drama should be particularly interesting.

There's some ugly family history, from what we've gathered, including an abusive dad, and it will be fun to see the character of Alex (one of our recent favorites) further explored.

Speaking of Grey’s Anatomy comings and goings, the Mercy West residents look to be sticking around ... well, at least some of them. One will definitely not be back next season.

A source says one of the four newbies introduced earlier in the year has already received his/her walking papers from the show and will exit SGMWH before the end of the season.

Any idea which one it is? Thought's on Izzie's (latest) return?

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.