Caterina Scorsone and Kevin McKidd, seasoned actors on the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, recently spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the show’s impact, character development, and the explosive season 20 finale directed by McKidd himself. Having joined the Grey’s universe later than the original cast, Scorsone (Dr. Amelia Shepherd) and McKidd (Dr. Owen Hunt) have become integral parts of the show, accumulating hundreds of episodes under their belts. With a record-breaking 21st season renewal for Grey’s Anatomy, it’s clear the show continues to resonate with audiences.
From Medical Drama to Cultural Touchstone
Grey’s Anatomy’s evolution from a soapy romance following Seattle surgeons to a cultural phenomenon is undeniable. The show tackles contemporary issues alongside the personal lives of its characters, allowing viewers to connect with the narrative on multiple levels.
“The relationship [audiences have] with the show now is…ubiquitous,” Scorsone explains. “It’s not about a particular plot, but rather a reflection of where we are as a society.” She elaborates that viewers can jump in at any point and still feel engaged with the show’s ongoing themes.
Season 20 Finale Delivers Classic Grey’s Twists
The penultimate episode of season 20, helmed by McKidd, delivered classic Grey’s Anatomy drama, focusing on both literal and metaphorical matters of the heart. Former cardiothoracic surgeon Maggie Pierce (Kelly McCreary) returns to Seattle from Chicago to collaborate with her soon-to-be ex-husband Winston (Anthony Hill) on a complex surgery. While sparks fly initially, the episode ends with Winston finalizing their divorce.
A Breakthrough in Alzheimer’s Research and a Betrayal
The season finale’s central plot point revolves around the groundbreaking research on Alzheimer’s led by Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) and Amelia Shepherd. Newly appointed Chief of Surgery Teddy Altman (Kim Raver) secretly funded the research using discretionary funds, a decision that comes to light when Catherine Avery (Debbie Allen) discovers it.
Amelia’s Conflict: Legacy vs. Progress
A heated exchange between Amelia and Meredith exposes the emotional weight of the research. Amelia expresses her reservations: “If we are right about this, it makes [Derek’s] work obsolete… No one is gonna read it.” This statement highlights Amelia’s struggle to potentially overshadow her late brother Derek Shepherd’s (Patrick Dempsey) research on the same disease.
A Difficult Choice and a Cliffhanger Ending
Despite the emotional turmoil and potential professional repercussions, Amelia ultimately decides to honor both Derek and Ellis Grey’s (Kate Burton) legacies by publishing their findings. However, another major cliffhanger emerges as Teddy confesses her actions to Catherine, resulting in Teddy’s dismissal as Chief of Surgery. The audience is left wondering about the future of the research and the impact on the characters’ relationships.
McKidd and Scorsone Reflect on Character Evolution and Fan Interest
The interview delves into McKidd and Scorsone’s perspectives on their characters’ journeys and the show’s enduring appeal. They acknowledge the constant evolution of their roles, highlighting the importance of growth and change within the narrative.
The Enduring Appeal of Grey’s Anatomy
Scorsone emphasizes the show’s ability to connect with viewers on a personal level: “People come up to me and say, ‘That storyline with Amelia resonated with me because I’m going through something similar.'” This ability to address relatable issues keeps fans invested in the characters’ lives.
The Legacy of Derek Shepherd
Both McKidd and Scorsone acknowledge the enduring presence of Derek Shepherd in the show’s narrative. While Amelia grapples with her brother’s legacy, viewers remain curious about how Derek’s absence continues to shape the characters and storylines.
