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Actress/Choreographer Debbie Allen is on her way to Grey’s Anatomy to play Jackson’s mom, a show rep tells TVGuide.com.

The Fame alum will play Catherine Avery in the fifth episode of the new season. Her arrival will shed some light on Jackson’s family background, according to Entertainment Weekly.

Allen should feel quite comfortable on the Grey’s set. She has directed three episodes in the past year.

The eighth season of Grey’s Anatomy premieres Thursday, September 22 at 9pm on ABC.