After Station 19’s Final Episode, I Would Love To See Carina Return To Grey’s Anatomy. Here’s Why I’m Worried It Won’t Happen

As Station 19 enters its final season, fans are left wondering what’s next for beloved characters like Carina DeLuca, played by Stefania Spampinato. With Jason George’s Ben Warren seemingly on a trajectory to return to Grey’s Anatomy, the hope for Carina’s return has never felt more pressing. However, as much sense as it makes for her to come back, I can’t shake the feeling that it might not happen.

Why It Makes Complete Sense For Carina To Return

Carina’s journey began as a recurring character on Grey’s Anatomy before she became a series regular on Station 19. Throughout her time on both shows, she developed a rich storyline that intertwines deeply with that of Maya Bishop (Danielle Savre). With Carina still employed as an OB/GYN at Grey Sloan, it would be illogical to simply erase her from the narrative now that Station 19 has concluded.

Moreover, the fan-favorite couple, known as Marina, has become an essential part of the franchise’s fabric. Now that Carina is pregnant with their child, it feels crucial for fans to witness this next chapter unfold. The delivery is bound to take place at Grey Sloan, and it would be a missed opportunity to not explore that significant moment.

Additionally, Jo Wilson (Camilla Luddington), another OB/GYN at Grey Sloan, is also expecting. The prospect of seeing Carina and Jo navigating their first pregnancies together adds another layer of excitement and potential storytelling.

Why I’m Afraid Carina Won’t Make The Jump

Despite my hopes, several factors make me anxious about Carina’s future on Grey’s Anatomy. For one, how can the show effectively tell Carina’s story without also including Maya? The series finale of Station 19 hinted at a future where Maya and Carina share three children together, and Maya’s ongoing role at the fire station raises questions about how the narrative could work without her character being part of the mix.

This dilemma is less pronounced for Ben, as his wife, Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson), is still actively involved in the hospital. The continuity of their storylines is easier to manage, while Carina’s connection to Maya complicates her potential return.

Moreover, Grey’s Anatomy is facing budget cuts in Season 21. With rumors circulating about cast reductions and potential exit announcements, it raises the likelihood that the show may not introduce multiple new series regulars. Stefania Spampinato has made only a handful of appearances on Grey’s Anatomy since transitioning from Station 19, and I worry that Carina could remain in the background, technically still working at the hospital but not appearing on screen.

The lack of a clear plan for Carina’s future in the flash-forward sequences from Station 19 adds to my concern. While Ben’s path back to Grey’s seems well-defined, Carina’s absence from that conversation leaves me uncertain about her role moving forward.

As we await the Season 21 premiere, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation and apprehension. Fans can relive the journeys of both Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 through streaming services like Hulu, but nothing compares to seeing Carina return to the screen and further her story alongside Maya. Only time will tell if we get that chance, but for now, my hopes are cautiously held.