Grey's Anatomy fans were left teary eyed after longtime stars Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver officially exited the ABC drama during the Season 22 finale. The now iconic exit however was not simply an outcome of the story but also very much influenced by the current realities facing the television industry.

"It’s always initiated by story, but it’s no secret what this industry is experiencing right now." Meg Marinis told The Hollywood Reporter.

The showrunner remained candid about the tough decisions that need to be taken in television while also insisting that Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver's exit was driven more by storytelling than anything else.

Importantly, the exits were never designed to permanently close the door on the characters. Instead of killing Owen and Teddy off, the writers intentionally gave them a peaceful sendoff that could allow future returns later in the series.

McKidd and Raver had both spent years deeply connected to the franchise, with McKidd also directing multiple episodes across the show’s run. That history made the goodbye especially emotional for everyone involved.

Meg Marinis opens up about Owen and Teddy’s emotional Grey's Anatomy exit

According to Meg Marinis, conversations about Owen and Teddy leaving Grey’s Anatomy began shortly after the New Year while the writers were shaping the final episodes of the season. The creative team remained determined to give the couple an ending that honored their years-long journey together.

Marinis revealed that alternate possibilities were discussed, including more tragic outcomes, but ultimately, the writers kept returning to the Paris conclusion.

“It was definitely pitched as an iconic Grey’s Anatomy death…But I cannot kill Owen Hunt. I can’t. I love that character too much and I want to see him again.” Marinis admitted while discussing Owen’s storyline.

Despite curating an arguably perfect ending for the characters, it was not easy to say goodbye to Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver.

"There were a lot of hugs and a lot of tears between the three of us.” Marini told The Hollywood Reporter.

Regardless, after years of emotional turbulence, failed timing, and complicated relationships, the writers believed this version of closure felt earned.

And although Owen and Teddy may no longer be walking the halls of Grey Sloan Memorial every week, Marinis made one thing clear — the door for their return remains very much open.

Do you think Owen and Teddy should eventually return to Grey’s Anatomy in future seasons? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Aarav Poonia

Edited by

Aliza Siddiqui