Hold on to your scrubs, folks! If you’re a fan of Grey’s Anatomy, you might’ve noticed something big happening with Dr. Nathan Riggs, played by Martin Henderson. Fans are buzzing after the Thursday, Oct. 26 episode titled "Danger Zone," wondering if this beloved character is about to walk out of Grey Sloan Memorial for good. Martin joined the show back in Season 12, and since then, Nathan has become a favorite surgeon and a potential love interest for Meredith Grey. So, what’s really going on here? Is this the end of the road for Nathan Riggs? Let’s dive in and find out!
Is This the End of the Line for Nathan Riggs?
The writing might be on the wall for Nathan Riggs. After the "Danger Zone" episode aired, Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes took to Twitter to share some heartfelt words. While confirming Martin's departure, she expressed her admiration for the actor and his character. "I loved that we were able to give Riggs a happy ending worthy of his character and talent. As for Martin, this is not an ending for our relationship. He has been part of the Shondaland family since the pilot of Inside the Box and he will always be family. I can’t wait to find a new project to work with him on in the future," she wrote. It seems like this isn’t goodbye forever, but for now, it’s time to say farewell to Nathan Riggs.
View this post on InstagramExcited for #greysanatomy Ep 5 flashback tomorrow – many surprises in store. Hope y’all enjoy!! #tgit #abc #shondaland
Read also:Carrie Underwood And Mike Fisher Are Thrilled To Welcome Another Baby Boy
Martin Henderson himself opened up about his exit in an interview with Deadline. He revealed that his contract with the show was always short-term, and wrapping up Nathan’s storyline was always part of the plan. "Bringing in Megan Hunt and tying up loose ends provided a reason. That was always intended when they brought Megan back with a twist. It’s been a couple of fun years on the show," he said. Fans were left reeling, with many expressing their disappointment online. Some even questioned whether this was Martin’s decision or the network’s. Social media lit up with fans voicing their frustrations, especially after two years of building anticipation around Nathan and Meredith’s relationship.
What’s the Deal with Nathan and Megan?
Let’s rewind a bit. Megan Hunt, Owen Hunt’s sister, has been a key part of Nathan’s storyline since the beginning, even though we didn’t meet her until Season 14. Flashbacks revealed that Nathan, Owen, Megan, and Teddy Altman were all working as US Army surgeons in Iraq a decade ago. During that time, Nathan proposed to Megan with an emerald necklace. But here’s the twist: the necklace was originally intended for another woman he had a brief affair with. Megan stumbled upon the jewelry, forcing Nathan into a hasty proposal. Both admitted to being unfaithful, and their relationship was rocky when Megan went missing.
Fast forward to Season 13, when Megan is finally found and brought back. At this point, Nathan is living in Seattle and forming a connection with Meredith, creating an awkward love triangle. In the Season 14 premiere, Nathan proposes to Megan again while she’s recovering at Grey Sloan Memorial. However, Megan declines, believing Nathan still has feelings for Meredith.
Meredith and Nathan on Grey’s Anatomy. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Read also:Heidi Klum Opens Up About Parenting Her Four Kids Lessons Love And Laughter
In the "Danger Zone" episode, Megan appears sporting a diamond engagement ring, and we see her, Nathan, and their adopted son Farouk setting up their new home in LA. Owen helps his sister pack up before she departs Seattle, and it’s revealed that Nathan has left Grey Sloan Memorial to start a new life in LA with Megan and Farouk. The episode ends with the trio playing on the beach, symbolizing the start of a new chapter for the couple.
Martin explained, "They’ve embarked on a commitment to start a new positive change and a new energy. Symbolically, the image of them on the beach looking at a new horizon signifies a sense of new beginning and hope. Raising Farouk and finding his place in a new town won’t be easy, but they’re committed to building a life together."
