From the moment Station 19 premiered in March 2018, it felt like I had been drawn into a series with unfulfilled potential. Centered around Andy Herrera (Jaina Lee Ortiz), a firefighter striving to follow in her father Pruitt’s (Miguel Sandoval) footsteps, the show initially felt like a spin-off of Grey’s Anatomy—a concept I had mixed feelings about. Despite some enjoyable moments, it never resonated with me the way Grey’s did.
The spinoff was heavily intertwined with its parent series, featuring storylines that often crossed over. Characters like Ben (Jason George), who transitioned from doctor to firefighter, regularly flitted between Grey’s and Station 19. Even the series finale saw plotlines from Grey’s play a crucial role in wrapping up Station 19. While I appreciate the connection, it often felt like Station 19 lacked its own identity.
Despite sharing many themes—both shows tackled relevant social issues—Station 19 struggled to explore these topics as seamlessly. The medical focus of Grey’s allowed for a more nuanced approach to complex issues like homelessness and healthcare, whereas Station 19 seemed to grapple with its narratives, often feeling derivative.
Though a seven-season run is commendable, it pales in comparison to Grey’s enduring success, which is entering its 21st season. Station 19 is the second spinoff to conclude while Grey’s remains on air, after Private Practice ended six seasons ago.
Romantically, the show struggled to create compelling arcs. Andy’s initial love triangle with Jack (Grey Damon) and Ryan (Alberto Frezza) failed to engage, especially after Ryan was killed off in season three. Andy eventually married Robert (Boris Kodjoe), but their relationship fizzled out, leading to another unmemorable pairing. Despite the intention of making Andy a strong female lead not defined by romance, the attempts to mirror iconic couples like Meredith and Derek fell flat.
The finale offered a glimpse into the future for characters as they battled a devastating forest fire. However, Andy’s hospital dreams felt less impactful than the love stories of Grey’s characters. The finale also teased a potential spinoff featuring Vic (Barrett Doss) and Travis (Jay Hayden) as they embark on a new adventure, which might finally break free from the overshadowing presence of Grey’s.
As network television evolves, Station 19’s departure marks a shift, paving the way for new scripted series. While it may not have set the world ablaze, I’ll be curious to see how its legacy unfolds, especially if future projects can capture the essence of both Grey’s Anatomy and its own untapped potential
