Derek Replacement’s Return in Grey’s Anatomy Season 21 May Impact Meredith’s Life

Meredith Grey’s romantic journey appears to have reached a state of stability in Grey’s Anatomy Season 21, particularly following the aftermath of Derek Shepherd’s tragic demise. However, the imminent return of a familiar character may reintroduce complications into her love life. Derek’s death was one of the series’ most heart-wrenching moments, significantly affecting Meredith, not only because of its shocking nature but also due to the profound emotional toll it took on her dating life. For a long period, the overwhelming grief made it seem impossible for Meredith to move on, as she grappled with losing the love of her life.

Over time, Meredith began to explore dating again, establishing several romantic relationships. Nevertheless, these connections often felt underdeveloped. Although she shared a meaningful history with Andrew DeLuca, their relationship ultimately collapsed when he recognized her deeper affection for her surgical career rather than for him. Other potential suitors, including Cormac Hayes, Nathan Riggs, and Atticus Lincoln, have all come and gone, leaving Meredith’s romantic life feeling incomplete. In contrast, her relationship with Nick stands out as the first genuine connection since Derek; however, the return of a specific character could jeopardize this newfound stability.

Nathan Riggs’ Return Could Complicate Meredith and Nick’s Relationship

Problems from Seasons 19 and 20 Have Set the Stage

Nathan Riggs made his debut as a potential love interest for Meredith during Season 12, aiming to fill the void Derek left behind. Their relationship took off but was abruptly cut short when Nathan’s ex-fiancée, Megan, re-emerged alive, effectively overshadowing the connection between him and Meredith. The possibility of Martin Henderson reprising his role as Nathan introduces a fresh layer of tension, especially given Nathan’s recent romantic struggles post-Megan’s departure.

The prospect of Nathan’s return could amplify existing tensions in Meredith and Nick’s relationship, particularly since Nathan represents an unresolved chapter in Meredith’s romantic history.

Currently, Meredith and Nick’s relationship seems to thrive following a pivotal emotional revelation in Season 20, where Meredith confronted her feelings amid a health crisis involving Bailey. This moment catalyzed a newfound openness between Meredith and Nick, fortifying their connection. Yet, Seasons 19 and 20 revealed ongoing challenges, including Meredith’s tendency to withhold crucial aspects of her professional life from Nick. This lack of transparency nearly led to several breakups. Nathan’s return might tempt Meredith to revisit what might have been, further exacerbating these issues.

A Disrupted Farewell: Nathan and Megan’s Relationship

The Collapse of Meredith and Riggs: A Missed Opportunity

Abigail Spencer as Megan Hunt and Martin Henderson as Nathan Riggs in Grey's Anatomy

Henderson has indicated that he would only return to Grey’s Anatomy if the storyline holds substantive value, not merely to sow discord between existing characters. His comeback could provide the necessary narrative closure; an exploration of Nathan’s breakup with Megan would enrich the storyline, especially considering how his exit from the show left fans hoping for a joyful union with her in Los Angeles.

The circumstances under which Nathan and Megan parted were fraught with past grievances, including Owen’s ongoing resentment towards Nathan. Their prior decision to reunite symbolized resilience and hope. Seeing how their off-screen breakup has now been used as a plot twist adds urgency to Nathan’s return, which could provide him the chance to articulate his feelings and facilitate closure, thereby enriching the story.

Overall, while Megan’s reappearance may hinder an exploration of Meredith and Nathan, it simultaneously opens the door for character development and complex storytelling that explores themes of second chances.

Episode #	Title	Release Date
1	If Walls Could Talk	September 26, 2024
2	Take Me to Church	October 3, 2024
3	I Can See Clearly Now	October 10, 2024
4	This One’s for the Girls	October 17, 2024
5	You Make My Heart Explode	October 24, 2024
6	Night Moves	November 8, 2024
7	If You Leave	November 15, 2024
8	Drop It Like It’s Hot	November 22, 2024
9	TBA	March 6, 2025