He got the information on his birthday, August 5, and went in the next day to read for the role, despite not knowing what part he had auditioned for. Williams learned he got the job a week later. In late 2009, a casting call for a young Ellis Grey and a young Richard Webber, who would appear in flashbacks, fueled rumors that Avery could be Meredith's half-brother. Williams later shot down the rumor, saying that Meredith would have noticed if her mother were pregnant. Matt Webb Mitovich noted Williams's absence from the Seattle Grace: On Call webseries as a sign of big plans for the character. In the episode, "Perfect Little Accident," which premiered on March 4, 2010, Avery is revealed to be the grandson of the legendary Harper Avery (Chelcie Ross). Shonda Rhimes hinted at the possibility of Williams and his co-star Sarah Drew becoming series regulars in her blog post about the season finale in May 2010. Williams's promotion was eventually confirmed in June 2010. Characterization The character's profile on official ABC website describes Avery as "hardworking, driven, observant" and "eager." However, at times, Avery can be too confident and "overly competitive," and very "stubborn." He has a habit of teasing his coworkers. Williams revealed to Essence.com that his character is very "ambitious. He doesn't takes sides or deal with any drama. He's there to work and not really get involved in the pettiness." He describes the character as much more "cavalier," and bold. Matt Webb Mitovitch described Jackson as having a "sense of entitlement," while Williams described Jackson's demeanor as "swagger." Because his work environment is extremely competitive, Avery acts as if he belongs and refuses to second guess himself. Upon arrival at Seattle Grace, he is "kind of a wise ass surgeon." He feels he is an "invader" in the new team and "he decides to deal with it kind of aggressively and not shy away from it and show his personality. He is very confident and likes to say what is on his mind." Williams also said: "Jackson is more of a lone wolf. He's not really built to go seek support and a shoulder to cry on." "He's always been trying to make it on his own. Jackson doesn't want to live off his legacy and his name, which also conflicts with him wanting to be close to his mother." Relationships Jackson immediately clashes