Grey’s Anatomy Season 21: Reviving 1 Overlooked Doctor for a Fitting Conclusion to an Unfair Storyline

Grey’s Anatomy Season 21 creates an exciting opportunity to reintroduce one of the show’s most intriguing yet overlooked characters: Nathan Riggs, portrayed by Martin Henderson. Introduced in Season 12, Riggs arrived as a romantic interest for Meredith Grey following the death of Derek Shepherd. The chemistry between Meredith and Riggs blossomed, offering viewers a glimpse of the potential for a meaningful relationship. However, Riggs’ storyline took a sharp turn when his long-missing fiancée, Megan Hunt, was discovered alive, compelling him to leave Meredith behind as he returned to California to rebuild his life with Megan.

While Riggs’ exit from the show wasn’t the most devastating, it certainly left many fans feeling unsettled. His departure intertwined with complicated dynamics, particularly his fraught relationship with Owen Hunt—Megan’s brother, who held Riggs responsible for her disappearance. Despite the closure that Riggs deserved, neither his relationship with Meredith nor his unresolved tensions with Owen were adequately addressed. Fortunately, Martin Henderson has expressed openness to revisiting his role in the anticipated Grey’s Anatomy Season 21, hoping to provide a satisfying conclusion for his character’s journey.

The Emotional Impact of Riggs’ Exit

Riggs’ Short-Lived Happiness in California

Throughout Riggs’ time on the show, he and Meredith shared a deep connection, rooted in their mutual experiences of loss. This emotional bond led viewers to believe they had the potential for a lasting, committed relationship. However, in Season 14, the return of Megan disrupted this budding romance. Despite their growing feelings, Riggs prioritized a reunion with Megan, unaware that their paths would soon take another tragic turn.

In a twist of fate, Megan later returns to Grey Sloan, revealing that she and Riggs parted ways during the pandemic—a revelation that adds another layer of heartbreak. As they faced unprecedented challenges during lockdown, both realized that their relationship had drifted apart, further emphasizing the tragedy of Riggs and Meredith’s untapped potential as a couple.

Exploring Riggs’ Return in Grey’s Anatomy Season 21

Riggs’ Opportunity to Share His Story

Abigail Spencer as Megan Hunt and Martin Henderson as Nathan Riggs in Grey's Anatomy season 14

Not much insight has emerged regarding the nature of Riggs and Megan’s breakup, leaving fans with questions about their relationship. The pressures of the pandemic certainly had a strain on many couples, making their split somewhat plausible. However, considering Megan’s traumatic past—as someone presumed dead for ten years—her decision to part with Riggs feels particularly heartbreaking.

Megan’s return in Season 18 ignited curiosity among fans, yet the reality of Riggs and Megan’s four-year relationship post-reunion ends with them separating once again. This narrative arc raises questions about how much these characters evolved during their years apart and suggests a longing for a deeper exploration of their motivations to split. Riggs’ planned return in Season 21 might provide the context and clarification needed to understand the complexity surrounding their breakup.

The Potential Impact of Riggs’ Return on Grey Sloan

Unpacking the Tension Surrounding Riggs’ Return

Nathan Riggs treating patients in Grey's Anatomy

Assuming Riggs makes his comeback as a cardiothoracic surgeon at Grey Sloan, it would reignite connections with former colleagues like Owen Hunt and Teddy Altman—colleagues who once worked alongside him during their shared experiences in Iraq. Given the longstanding animosity between Riggs and Owen following Megan’s disappearance, his return could serve as a crucial turning point, offering the possibility of reconciliation now that Megan’s life is no longer entwined with theirs.

Furthermore, as Meredith appears to have progressed into a relationship with Nick Marsh, the return of her former love interest could complicate matters and reignite unresolved feelings. Riggs could potentially become a source of tension, inviting a nostalgic reflection on what might have been between him and Meredith—a classic “what if”scenario that captivates audiences.

In conclusion, Riggs’ return to Grey’s Anatomy promises to add depth to the emotional landscape of the series, presenting opportunities for character development and intricate storytelling. Explaining the fallout of his past relationships and how they affect the current narrative could resonate with long-time viewers and invigorate new discussions around the show’s potent themes of love, loss, and healing.

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