The Shocking Truth Behind Nathan Riggs' Grey's Anatomy Exit Finally Revealed!

Summary

Nathan's arrival at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital brought both challenges and acceptance, as he struggled to fit in but eventually found his place.

Despite Owen's initial dislike, Meredith and other characters formed their own opinions of Nathan and developed relationships with him. Nathan's departure from Grey's Anatomy was more positive compared to other characters, as he found love and closure with Megan, enabling him to grow and progress.

Grey’s Anatomy's long-running nature ensured a continuous influx of new characters and departures of old ones, leading to the intertwining of Nathan Riggs' story with several central characters since his introduction in season 12. Initially brought to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital by April, whom he had worked with in Jordan after leaving Seattle following the death of her firstborn, Samuel, it quickly became evident that Riggs seamlessly blended in with the exceptional doctors at Grey Sloan. However, Owen's deep-seated hostility towards Riggs also made it clear that they shared a troubled past, initially complicating Nathan's relationships with many at Grey Sloan Memorial.

Owen's refusal to acknowledge any positive aspects of Riggs' presence added fuel to the drama, yet it did not completely deter others from forming their own impressions of Nathan. Despite initially siding with Owen as a favor to Cristina, Meredith gradually grew closer to Nathan, eventually considering him as her first potentially serious romantic interest since the loss of Derek. However, their relationship faced obstacles, as Meredith did not want to hurt her sister Maggie by pursuing Nathan, and Megan's unexpected return in Grey's Anatomy season 14 created further complications. Nevertheless, when Nathan eventually exited the show, his departure proved to be happier than that of many other characters in previous seasons, allowing for his personal growth and concluding his story in a satisfying manner.

Nathan Riggs Moved To California With Megan Hunt

Riggs left Grey's Anatomy due to Martin Henderson's contract expiration, resulting in no drama surrounding his departure. With Megan being alive and their reconnection, she and Nathan had a second chance at their relationship. Meredith saved Megan's life through an abdominal wall transplant, earning her a Harper Avery award. Nathan's determination to bring Megan's son to the States showcased his love for her. Moving to California gave them a fresh start and also provided the best exit storyline for Nathan, as it helped alleviate his guilt and grief. Overall, their reunion and improved life was the ideal ending for his story.

Megan Hunt Returns After Breaking Up With Nathan

Megan returned to Grey's Anatomy in the season 18 premiere because Teddy and Owen were getting married. However, during surgery on the priest supposed to officiate their wedding, Megan revealed that her relationship with Nathan was a victim of the pandemic. This made them both realize that they had very little in common, aside from the challenges they had faced together. Ultimately, despite the end of Megan and Nathan's love story, Riggs' departure from Grey's Anatomy turned out to be the best outcome for him. Unlike many other characters, he did not die and his exit storyline also provided a sense of fulfillment.