Grey’s Anatomy Star Discusses Possible Future Return to the Series After 7-Year Hiatus

Grey’s Anatomy Star Discusses Possible Future Return to the Series After 7-Year Hiatus

Former Grey’s Anatomy actor Martin Henderson has recently discussed the intriguing possibility of reprising his role as Dr. Nathan Riggs. Introduced in season 12, Riggs emerged as a pivotal character at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, notably serving as a trauma surgeon and becoming a romantic interest for both Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) and Megan Hunt (Abigail Spencer). After a two-season run, Henderson departed the series in 2017. Currently, he stars in Netflix’s hit series Virgin River, which has garnered immense popularity and was renewed for a seventh season, solidifying its status as Netflix’s longest-running scripted original series.

I haven’t given it a lot of thought, just because I’ve been so committed and busy with Virgin River and some other stuff and life. But I think Shonda Rhimes has always been really supportive of me; we’ve actually worked together a bunch of times on different things, so I would always be open to the possibility. Again, if it fitted in with whatever else was going on in my life at the time and my career.

Continuing his reflections on a potential comeback, Henderson noted that he would consider returning to Grey’s Anatomy, provided he believes the character has a well-defined storyline. He candidly expressed that during his initial stint, Nathan Riggs lacked clear character depth. As Henderson recalled:

It was almost like a stopgap measure with the departure of Derek. It was like, oh, we need a love interest. And so he, and by virtue I, was dropped into this world, but I don’t think he was ever that defined. If I were to go back, I would have to make sure that there was a really clear plan for why he was there.

Implications for Riggs’ Future on Grey’s Anatomy

A Potential for Closure

Nathan Riggs looking at someone off screen in Grey's Anatomy

The possibility of Riggs returning to the show opens the door for engaging new storylines, particularly in light of the shifting dynamics in Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. His comeback could offer significant closure, considering Riggs was last depicted with Megan and her son Farouk, embarking on a hopeful journey together. However, the narrative took a turn in season 18, as Megan disclosed that her relationship with Nathan had ended. Thus, a reappearance by Riggs could further enrich Megan’s character arc, or potentially introduce unexpected developments in Meredith’s romance with Nick Marsh.

With the show’s innovative storytelling techniques, including flashbacks and parallel narratives, writers could seamlessly reintegrate Riggs into the current storyline. Nevertheless, a return hinges on Henderson’s schedule and a compelling narrative justification for the character’s revival. Balancing his successful role as Jack Sheridan in Virgin River presents a challenge for fitting in a multi-episode arc on Grey’s Anatomy. Despite this, Henderson’s openness to the idea keeps the hope alive for fans eager to see Nathan Riggs once more or receive an update on his journey.

Our Perspective on a Possible Nathan Riggs Return

The Door Remains Ajar

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

While there are no official confirmations yet, Henderson’s willingness to return to Grey’s Anatomy generates excitement among fans who miss Riggs’ presence. Whether through a multi-episode storyline or a one-off guest appearance, the return of Riggs could evoke nostalgia while offering closure and contributing to ongoing narratives. As Grey’s Anatomy continues its historic journey into season 21, the prospect of Riggs donning scrubs again is an enticing possibility that fans should monitor closely.

Source: Deadline

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