Meredith Grey has been a constant presence in “Grey’s Anatomy” since its very first episode and continues to be so after two decades. Although Ellen Pompeo’s iconic character stopped being a regular cast member some years back, the finale of Season 21 hints that she will stay on for a while longer.
Although she appears less frequently since her full-time exit, Meredith remains central in keeping the show cohesive. The series no longer relies on her; episodes without her are just as much Grey’s Anatomy as ever. However, when the show chooses to utilize her, it ensures her impact is significant.
Last week’s finale left no doubt as I stepped in during a hostage crisis, Meredith courageously helped soothe a frantic mother whose child was critically ill. Meredith has always been ready to risk her own life for others, and oddly enough, her self-destructive side often leads to acts of extraordinary altruism. Yet, the finale unveiled more than just Meredith’s bravery. We discovered that she will return, at least for the summer – a possible prelude to the upcoming season airing this fall on ABC.
Despite its best efforts, the series struggles to move on from Meredith. I’m okay with this. After stepping back for a while, Pompeo starred in a Hulu true-crime drama, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and seems to be thriving. If she chooses to rejoin – whether as a regular cast member or otherwise – nobody will stand in her way, especially not Shonda Rhimes. Many viewers share this sentiment, too; they don’t want Meredith to depart permanently. Yet, could Grey’s Anatomy truly survive without the last Grey sibling? (I personally believe it can, but that doesn’t mean it should.)
Within the storyline, she continues to be connected to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital not only by personal preference but predominantly due to feelings of guilt. When she reveals to Richard her intention to sell her hospital shares, he stiffens up immediately. Throughout the episode, he repeatedly manipulates her emotions until she reconsiders. Even Catherine Fox appears unfazed by her decision to stay, which is quite remarkable given Catherine Fox’s character.
Despite not requiring the series to deceive me about her departure, I wholeheartedly believed it when it happened. As soon as a new episode of this show begins, I find myself believing anything. However, I’m delighted that she’s sticking around because she provides stability for me. The existing cast is fantastic and I trust that any new characters will enhance the impressive improvement in the show’s quality. Yet, even though Meredith isn’t strictly necessary, her presence makes me feel right at home.
Regardless of how long she remains or the duration of the show, for now, it feels great that neither of us needs to part ways immediately.
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2025-05-20 20:14