The Shocking Truth Behind Cristina Yang's Departure from Grey's Anatomy in Season 10

One of the most beloved and popular characters in Grey's Anatomy, Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh), bid farewell to the series when Sandra Oh departed from Grey's Anatomy. The primary backdrop of the show revolves around the fictional Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, previously known as Seattle Grace Hospital. However, the series has also explored storylines in various other hospitals. Throughout its duration, Grey's Anatomy primarily revolved around Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo), who went from being an intern to assuming the role of Head of General Surgery. Among the interns who joined the hospital alongside Meredith was Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh), who eventually became Meredith's closest friend.

Similar to the other main characters in Grey's Anatomy, Cristina Yang's life was filled with ups and downs, with her major storylines revolving around her complicated relationships with Preston Burke and Owen Hunt. Despite being a skilled and knowledgeable doctor, Cristina struggled to express her emotions and often found it challenging to empathize with her patients. In the tenth season of Grey's Anatomy, both Cristina and Sandra Oh bid farewell to the show. Preston Burke, years after their relationship ended abruptly, offered Cristina the position of head of a hospital in Switzerland. Accepting the offer, Cristina made the decision to move to Zurich.

Oh Felt She'd Given The Character Her All

Sandra Oh's departure from Grey's Anatomy was announced in 2013. She had signed a two-year deal in 2012, ensuring her return for season 10 but not beyond. In an interview with THR in 2013, Oh revealed that she had started considering leaving the show when she and her castmates signed the aforementioned deal. She explained that creatively, she felt ready to bid farewell to Cristina. However, parting ways with her co-stars from season 1 was not an easy task for Oh. When she informed them of her decision to leave, it didn't feel real to her. Fortunately, Shonda Rhimes, the show's creator, was incredibly supportive of Oh's choice. Unlike other characters from season 1 who met tragic ends, Cristina Yang received a proper conclusion to her storyline. This ending was more in line with her character, as Cristina had always worked hard and deserved a significant opportunity in one of the world's leading medical research facilities for cardiothoracic surgery, even if it meant accepting an offer from Preston Burke.

Dr. Yang Survived Her Arc So Could Still Appear In The Future

Given that Christina Yang was not killed off like Derek and other characters on Grey's Anatomy, there is still a possibility for her to make a return to the show. Unlike those who left due to tragic deaths, Christina's departure opens up the opportunity for her to make a cameo appearance in the future if Sandra Oh is available and willing. This is evident from Patrick Dempsey's character, who died in season 11, making a brief comeback in Meredith's COVID coma hallucination. It shows that Grey's Anatomy has the ability to bring back its old cast members for small roles.

Although Ellen Pompeo's role is being reduced in the future, it may seem unlikely for Christina to have a reason to return. However, it is interesting to note that narratively, the possibility of a small reunion is not completely out of the question for the show.

Sandra Oh Had A Huge Career After Grey's Anatomy

After her departure from Grey's Anatomy in 2014, Sandra Oh's career took off with her breakthrough role as Dr. Christina Yang. Following her successful stint on the medical drama, Oh ventured into different projects, including the film Tammy, where she played Kathy Bates' wife. She then transitioned to the Refinery29 comedy web series Shitty Boyfriends and starred in the 2016 film Catfight alongside Anne Hesche and Alicia Silverstone. Oh also made an appearance in the anthology series American Crime season 3 as Abby Tanaka.

In 2018, Oh landed the lead role of Eve Polastri in the spy thriller series Killing Eve, which concluded in April 2022. Her portrayal of Eve Polastri garnered critical acclaim and made her the first Asian actress to be nominated for an Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series Primetime Emmy Award. Oh's performance also earned her a Golden Globe, making her the first Asian actress to win two Golden Globes.

Sandra Oh's talent extends beyond her role in Grey's Anatomy, as she also lends her voice to characters such as Castaspella in She-Ra and the Princess of Power and Virana in Raya and the Last Dragon. Her diverse range of roles ensures that she will continue to be recognized for her exceptional skills in the entertainment industry.

Could Sandra Oh Return To Grey's Anatomy?

When Sandra Oh left Grey's Anatomy, her character's survival opened up the possibility of her return to the series. Given the show's history of bringing back cast members, including deceased characters through Meredith's hallucinations during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is highly likely that Sandra Oh would be welcomed back if she expressed interest. In season 19, episode 16, there was a significant moment where Cristina sent a letter to Addison and Bailey, indicating a potential connection and hinting at the potential return of Sandra Oh's character.

With the departure of Meredith Grey as a full-time cast member, there is now potential for the show to bring back past characters. The return of Sandra Oh and Cristina would be a significant moment for Grey's Anatomy fans. Even if it is just for a brief appearance in one or two episodes, this could greatly satisfy the fans. Given the recent focus on reproductive rights storylines, Cristina is the ideal character to come back and contribute to that narrative within the hospital. In season 7, Cristina bravely stood up for her rights when she had an abortion that Owen shamed her for. Whether it is for that specific storyline or as a surprise in the future, Sandra Oh may have left Grey's Anatomy, but she could always make a comeback.