Get ready for a heart-wrenching revelation from the set of Grey's Anatomy! In a recent interview, showrunner Meg Marinis opened up about the difficult decision to kill off a beloved character in the season 22 premiere. But here's where it gets controversial... the choice wasn't made lightly, and it left even the toughest writer in tears.
After a thrilling and explosive season 21 finale, the writers room faced a daunting task: deciding the fate of the characters caught in the hospital explosion. And let's just say, it wasn't an easy debate.
Marinis revealed, "We had that small group of people on the OR floor, and we had to ask ourselves: If this person dies, what story do we tell? It was a chain reaction of decisions."
But the most emotional moment came when Marinis announced her decision: "It's Monica."
Dr. Monica Beltran, played by the talented Natalie Morales, met her tragic end while selflessly saving the lives of others. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn't just about the character's death, but the impact it would have on the show and the other characters.
Marinis explained, "I wanted to see someone die heroically, saving not just a child, but also guiding Jules through a difficult surgery. It was a powerful moment that showcased Monica's character."
The decision left Morales, a professional through and through, unphased. But it was clear that the impact of Monica's death would be felt by her colleagues on the show, especially Jules and Dr. Amelia Shepherd, who had recently been in a relationship with Monica.
Marinis continued, "We wanted to explore a different aspect of Jules' journey, especially after she got her wish for a solo surgery, only to find herself in a high-pressure pediatric case. And for Amelia, we wanted to show the consequences of taking on impossible surgeries."
But it wasn't just Monica's death that had an impact. The show also came close to killing off another fan favorite, Dr. Atticus Lincoln, aka "Link."
"We got pretty close," Marinis admitted. "But we felt that this couple had been through enough, and we weren't ready to go there yet."
So, what's next for Link? Well, prepare for a challenging recovery journey that will test Grey's most optimistic character.
"Chris Carmack, who plays Link, really delivered an emotional performance. It was a side of the character we've never seen before."
As for the season as a whole, Marinis promises a mix of high-stakes disaster episodes and quieter, emotional storylines.
"We want to explore real-world themes, like hope, and how it can help us rise above difficult situations."
With old characters returning and new interns joining the team, Grey's Anatomy season 22 is set to be a rollercoaster of emotions.
So, what do you think? Was the decision to kill off Monica the right one? And how will Link's recovery impact the show? Let us know in the comments!
