Grey’s Anatomy: Why Alex Karev’s departure was actually perfect
Grey’s Anatomy fans are devastated that Justin Chambers is not returning as Alex Karev, but here’s why the departure was perfect for his character.
I know what you’re thinking. How can Alex Karev just ride off into the sunset without a proper goodbye after fifteen years on Grey’s Anatomy? While initially I was not pleased about it at all, I did some reflecting and concluded his exit may have indeed been perfect.
Hear me out. Alex Karev started his run at Seattle Grace as the most-hated intern. Through the years, he evolved and somehow became a fan-favorite as he and Meredith were the last two standing from their class. After Meredith lost Cristina and Derek, Alex became her person who would do anything to make sure she was safe and happy.
As far as we know, Alex is not returning to Seattle, though I would be ecstatic if he did. The historic 350th episode on Nov. 15 was his last when he brought in memorable patients from Meredith’s past to let them explain to the medical board why Meredith shouldn’t lose her license. His final scene featured several doctors and patients all celebrating Meredith’s victory thanks to Alex and Bailey coming to her aid.
More from ABC
- Dancing with the Stars season 32 week 9 scorecard: Who went home on DWTS?
- Roger Howarth is leaving General Hospital (Cast exit explained)
- Taylor Swift won’t appear in special Dancing with the Stars episode
- ABC will start rolling out its midseason schedule January 2024 (Release dates and airtimes)
- Grey’s Anatomy season 20 officially has a premiere date (Everything to know)
During the fall finale, Jo revealed Karev was away in Iowa to help his mother, but little did we know that he likely wasn’t returning. Is his mother in bad shape? Did he find a new job opportunity that he just couldn’t pass up? Either way, TVLine has revealed that his status will be addressed during next week’s midseason premiere, but not in a way that provides closure. And knowing Alex Karev, closure is something he’s not quite familiar with.
Alex had a troubled childhood which played a role in his behavior towards others as an adult. He fell in love with and married Izzie Stevens, who died in his arms, came back to life, and then abandoned him. He’s lost a number of friends and colleagues, got shot in the chest, spent some time in jail, and had to protect Jo from her abusive ex-husband. Even though he’s now happily married and has achieved greatness throughout his career, it makes sense for his character to leave town and never look back.
Whether or not Justin Chambers’ exit was an abrupt decision, the way everything panned out for his final episode nearly felt like a proper goodbye for Alex Karev. He helped his person rebound from almost losing her career all while the drama was set to Sleeping at Last’s cover of “Where Does the Good Go” – the exact same song that Meredith and Cristina danced it out to when Cristina left Grey Sloan in Season 10.
As diehard fans who have followed Karev since the very beginning, of course we want closure and a “proper” farewell. But since we probably aren’t getting that, we should be thankful that his last moment was an unforgettable and positive one. Let’s just hope the writers are able to make it make sense in the episodes to come because we have a lot of questions.
Next. 5 questions for Grey's Anatomy with Karev's exit. dark
How do you think Alex Karev’s departure will be addressed on Grey’s Anatomy? What was your favorite Karev moment? Sound off in the comments below!
Grey’s Anatomy returns next Thursday, Jan. 23, at 9/8 C on ABC.