In Season 5 of *Station 19*, the storyline involving Carina DeLuca (Stefania Spampinato) and Maya Bishop (Danielle Savre) has sparked significant backlash among fans. The controversy centers around their decision to have a baby and the complications that arise from their choice of a sperm donor. Here’s a closer look at why this storyline has not resonated well with the audience.
**The Sperm Donor Dilemma**
The main issue arises from Carina and Maya’s choice to ask Jack (Grey Damon) to be their sperm donor. This decision is fraught with complications because Maya had previously cheated on Carina with Jack in Season 3, Episode 15. Despite this past infidelity, Carina agrees to use Jack’s sperm, leading to significant fan discontent.
**Why Fans Are Upset**
1. **Negative Representation of Bisexuality:** Fans argue that involving Jack in the sperm donation story undermines the narrative of two queer women starting a family together. Critics feel that the storyline diverts focus from the couple’s relationship and introduces unnecessary drama through Jack, which some viewers interpret as a negative portrayal of bisexuality.
2. **Comparison to ‘Grey’s Anatomy’:** Fans have drawn comparisons between this storyline and similar plotlines in *Grey’s Anatomy*. Specifically, the situation is likened to the Teddy/Owen/Tom storyline. In *Grey’s Anatomy*, Teddy Altman (Kim Raver) had an affair with Tom Koracick (Greg Germann), and fans question whether Owen Hunt (Kevin McKidd) would have agreed to a sperm donation from Tom. The comparison highlights the perceived improbability and awkwardness of Carina and Maya’s choice given the history between Maya and Jack.
3. **Focus Shift:** The storyline shifts focus from the central relationship of Carina and Maya to the inclusion of Jack, which many fans feel dilutes the emotional impact of their journey to parenthood. Some argue that it introduces a third party into what should be a deeply personal and intimate process between the two women.
**Viewer Reactions**
The decision to involve Jack as a sperm donor has sparked a heated debate among fans. Many feel that the storyline fails to respect the complexity of Carina and Maya’s relationship and the nuances of queer representation. Critics on platforms like Reddit have voiced their frustrations, suggesting that the storyline feels more like a plot device than a meaningful development for the characters.
**Looking Ahead**
As the season progresses, fans are hoping that the show will address these concerns in a way that respects the characters and their relationships. The upcoming episode, *Station 19* Season 5, Episode 16, airs on May 5, and it will be interesting to see how the storyline evolves and whether it will address the criticisms raised by viewers.
