As Station 19 prepares to conclude its seven-season run, Jaina Lee Ortiz, who portrayed Captain Andy Herrera, reflects on her journey and the significance of the series. Speaking to HELLO! ahead of the final episodes, Ortiz shares her thoughts on the show’s end, its impact, and her hopes for representation.
Taking It One Day at a Time
Jaina emphasizes the importance of cherishing the final moments on set, saying, “We’re living by the idea of taking it one day at a time… The main goal for everyone is to enjoy these moments and go out with a bang.” Despite the unexpected cancellation, she feels proud to have reached over 100 episodes, a milestone in today’s TV landscape.
Andy’s Journey to Leadership
Reflecting on Andy’s evolution, Jaina notes that her character’s promotion to captain represents the culmination of her hard work. “Andy’s main motivation was to succeed in her career,” Jaina explains, highlighting how Andy’s journey offers a different kind of “happily ever after” focused on professional achievement rather than traditional romance.
Navigating New Challenges
As captain, Andy faces the challenge of balancing friendships with her new authority. Jaina anticipates some difficult moments as Andy learns to draw boundaries with her colleagues, showcasing her growth and struggles in a position of power. “In order to succeed, you have to fail,” she notes, hinting at the complexities ahead.
Celebrating the 100th Episode
The 100th episode promises to be particularly emotional and significant for the Latinx community. “It’s rare to see a Hispanic female in a leadership position,” Jaina points out, expressing pride in portraying a character that resonates with many viewers. The episode will feature flashbacks that celebrate Andy’s journey, encapsulating the show’s themes of resilience and achievement.
A Heartfelt Farewell
When discussing the fan response to the show’s cancellation, Jaina expresses gratitude for the impact Station 19 has had on her life and career. “I feel tremendously grateful… Am I heartbroken? Yes. But do I understand that this is part of the business? Yes,” she says, remaining optimistic about the future.
Looking Ahead
Jaina hopes to see Andy find true love and balance family life with her career, but recognizes that her character’s focus on her job is also a valid narrative. “Not every woman gets to live out their career goals,” she reflects.
As she prepares to leave the show, Jaina plans to take her helmet as a memento, emphasizing the bonds she’s formed with her castmates. “I’m walking away with my chosen family,” she concludes, looking forward to future reunions filled with laughter and memories.
Through her journey as Andy Herrera, Jaina Lee Ortiz has not only made an indelible mark on Station 19 but has also brought visibility and pride to the Latinx community, celebrating the complexities of women’s ambitions in a dynamic industry.
