As Station 19 wrapped up its seven-season run, fans were left feeling unsatisfied with the series finale, and it’s got me worried about how Grey’s Anatomy will eventually conclude. Here are seven reasons why Grey’s Anatomy needs to learn from Station 19‘s missteps.
- Character Closure Challenges
Station 19 struggled to provide meaningful closure for its ensemble cast, cramming too many character arcs into a limited runtime. Instead of focusing on one central character, the finale jumped between multiple subplots, leaving little room for emotional depth. Grey’s Anatomy, with its own extensive cast, must prioritize key characters to ensure satisfying send-offs.
- Overemphasis on Disasters
While Station 19 opted for a high-stakes wildfire event, this choice overshadowed character development and connection. For Grey’s Anatomy, which has excelled in smaller-scale drama, the focus should be on character relationships rather than relying on disaster-driven plots. The show should center on its core themes of human connection rather than spectacle. - Lack of Meaningful Flash Forwards
Station 19 used flash forwards that felt disconnected and formulaic, failing to provide a satisfying glimpse into the future of its characters. If Grey’s Anatomy decides to employ this technique, it must ensure that these moments are impactful and resonate with the audience, rather than feeling like a last-minute gimmick. - Need for Nostalgic Callbacks
Grey’s Anatomy has a rich history to draw from, and its finale should include meaningful callbacks to earlier seasons and beloved characters. Unlike Station 19, which had fewer legacy moments, Grey’s Anatomy can leverage over two decades of storytelling to create a heartfelt conclusion that acknowledges its past. - Incorporation of Fan-Favorite Cameos
The return of iconic characters is essential for Grey’s Anatomy’s finale. The show has established emotional ties with viewers through characters like Cristina Yang and Derek Shepherd. Bringing back these beloved figures can provide closure and celebrate the show’s legacy in a way Station 19 failed to achieve. - Extended Finale Format
Station 19‘s two-part finale felt rushed and disjointed, suffering from its shortened season. Grey’s Anatomy, set to reach 20 seasons, deserves a more traditional two-hour finale event that allows for a deeper exploration of its characters and storylines, ensuring that each arc gets the attention it deserves.
- Expectation of High-Stakes Drama
While Station 19 avoided major character deaths, Grey’s Anatomy is known for its dramatic and often divisive character fates. To live up to its legacy, the finale should deliver emotional stakes that resonate with fans, ensuring a memorable conclusion that reflects the series’ long history of triumphs and tragedies.
In conclusion, as Grey’s Anatomy approaches its inevitable finale, it must take heed of Station 19‘s pitfalls to create a deeply satisfying conclusion that honors its characters and legacy.
