The Surprising Twist: Alex Karev’s Epic Return to Grey’s Anatomy That Will Leave Fans Speechless

It has been three years since Alex Karev (played by Justin Chambers) departed from Grey's Anatomy during season 16. While there is a possibility for his character to return in season 20, it would not be a wise decision. As one of the original interns from season 1, Alex played a significant role in the series, alongside Meredith, until the end. Over time, his character transformed from a cocky and misogynistic intern into a caring, kind, and protective pediatric surgeon, making him a beloved character among Grey's Anatomy fans. However, it is best to leave his character in the past.

Season 19 of Grey's Anatomy was a season of conclusions and fresh beginnings, with both Meredith and Maggie leaving the show as main characters, while Addison and Jackson made notable comebacks. This leaves the possibility for season 20 to do the same by reintroducing characters who had left open doors, such as Alex Karev. However, unlike Addison, who received her own spinoff show, and Jackson, who finally got a happy ending with April, Alex's departure was met with controversy and negative reception. In season 16, Alex left Seattle and his wife, Jo, to be with Izzie and the twins she had through frozen embryos.

Alex’s Bad Grey’s Anatomy Exit Would Complicate His Return

Alex's departure from Grey's Anatomy is often regarded as one of the show's worst exits. Many viewers believed that his sendoff was poorly executed and completely out of character, to the point where they would have preferred his character to have been killed off. Surprisingly, Alex left the show in season 16, just before the mid-season finale, under the pretense of visiting his mother. Months later, it was announced that Chambers was leaving the show, and to make matters worse, his final appearance was only through voiceover, eight episodes after his last on-screen appearance.

By leaving without directly informing his wife and ignoring her calls, Alex's exit made him appear as if he had become a completely different character. Instead of personally explaining his permanent departure to his wife, he left the task to Meredith. This decision was particularly perplexing considering the similarity to Izzie's abrupt departure in season 6, where she also left without a word to her husband. The exits of both Izzie and Alex essentially tarnished their characters, making it difficult to justify their potential returns for both viewers and the show's storyline.

Alex Returning Would Be Unfair To Jo In Grey’s Anatomy Season 20

Alex's departure in Grey's Anatomy not only devastated his character but also betrayed Jo. After six seasons of an on-and-off relationship, they finally tied the knot in the season 14 finale. Both characters had experienced traumatic pasts and found solace in each other, hoping for a happily ever after. However, by leaving the show, Alex abandoned significant relationships, especially Jo, making his potential return unfair to her.

Currently, Jo is finally moving on and finding happiness with Link. Given her troubled mental health history, Alex's return could potentially undo all the growth and healing she has achieved since his departure. Moreover, for Alex's decision to be justified, he would have to return with Izzie, which would be extremely cruel to Jo. While it would be pleasant for viewers to see Alex on Grey's Anatomy again, the way his character was bid farewell indicates that he wouldn't be the same beloved Alex they initially fell in love with.