The Ultimate Ranking of All 19 Grey's Anatomy Seasons - Unveiling the Best and Worst!

Summary

Grey's Anatomy season 17 focused heavily on the COVID-19 pandemic, which divided viewers. The season had memorable moments but was mostly dull.

In Season 18, there was a noticeable improvement in terms of character development and exciting crossovers with Station 19. One character, in particular, Meredith, had a strong and compelling storyline.

However, in Season 19, there were risks taken with the introduction of new characters, but the season struggled to find its direction. Eventually, the season concluded with surprising and enjoyable plot twists, symbolizing the end of an era.

Grey's Anatomy has had its fair share of highs and lows in its nearly two-decade run. While some seasons have soared, others have fallen. As the flagship show of Shondaland Productions, Grey's Anatomy has outlasted other successful Shondaland shows like How To Get Away With Murder, Scandal, and Private Practice. It has managed to reinvent and rejuvenate the medical drama genre, maintaining a devoted fan base even after all these years.

Since its inception, Grey's Anatomy has consistently delivered the gripping drama that initially captivated audiences. As it enters its second decade, the show has evolved but still remains true to its roots, providing viewers with the same compelling storytelling. Despite changes in the cast over time, the core essence of the medical drama remains unchanged. However, not all seasons of Grey's Anatomy are on par with each other, with some being memorable while others are better forgotten.

Season 17

Season 18

Season 17 of Grey's Anatomy sparked intense debate among fans. While some praised the show for its realistic portrayal of the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, others criticized it. Despite the inclusion of memorable scenes, the season primarily focused on the hospital's response to the pandemic, which resulted in a somewhat dull storyline. In a surprising twist, the beloved main character, Meredith, contracted the virus and experienced vivid dreams, featuring long-gone fan-favorite characters from previous seasons.

The seventeenth and eighteenth seasons of Grey's Anatomy were particularly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the latter season showed a positive shift in the right direction. Alongside its focus on how Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital tackled the virus, it made notable strides in character development. Meredith Grey, in particular, showcased remarkable strength as she reevaluated her life following a near-death experience in season 17. The season was ultimately elevated by its engaging crossovers and the introduction of Station 19 characters, which brought a refreshing change.

Season 19

Coming out of the pandemic and approaching its 20th season, Grey's Anatomy season 19 took bold risks with mixed results, yet it showed promise in its attempt to shake things up. No longer the central protagonist, Ellen Pompeo's Dr. Meredith Grey took a backseat, leading to some stumbling moments as new characters were introduced and developed. Nevertheless, the season finale of Grey's Anatomy season 19 delivered both exciting and shocking twists reminiscent of the show's early days. With Meredith's departure, it truly marked the end of an era.

Season 16

Season 16 of Grey's Anatomy brought about numerous changes for the main characters, resulting in a mixed response from viewers. One element of the season focuses on Meredith, who finds herself in a challenging situation after admitting to insurance fraud. She struggles to maintain her medical license throughout the season, while also facing the loss of a close friend as Alex suddenly leaves Seattle without any explanation for months. Additionally, mental health issues takes center stage as Jo and DeLuca grapple with their individual struggles. Adding to the show's already expansive family, Amelia becomes a mother.

Season 15

Alex is promoted to interim Chief by Bailey, leading to increased tension in his relationship with Jo. Season 15 of Grey's Anatomy is filled with interpersonal drama that affects their dynamic. Additionally, Amelia and Owen adapt to having foster children in their home. Meanwhile, Meredith faces the challenge of discussing the possibility of dating again with her kids, as she realizes she is ready for it. Notably, episode 19, titled "Silent All These Years," delves into the experiences of sexual assault survivors and provides a deeper backstory for Jo.

Season 13

Season 13 of Grey's Anatomy focused on change, primarily within the professional lives of the doctors and medical students rather than their personal lives. A significant transformation occurred in the hospital's teaching program, which involved the introduction of consultant Eliza Minnick. This overhaul created numerous tense situations for the characters as many of the seasoned doctors resisted the changes. Additionally, Alex had to confront the consequences of his assault on Andrew, Owen received news about his sister who had been missing for a long time, and Meredith had to revisit the emotions triggered by the plane crash that claimed her sister's life.

Season 14

Season 8

: Despite Shonda Rhimes stepping down as showrunner before Grey's Anatomy season 14, this season marked a significant shift as she no longer had any influence over the show. This change in leadership gave season 14 a transitional tone, shifting the focus towards the future rather than the present. Notably, three series regulars bid farewell to the show in their final story arcs: Arizona, Nathan, and April. As the season progressed, several characters found themselves in captivating storylines. Meredith, once again, found herself in the midst of a love triangle, while multiple characters navigated complex sisterly dynamics. Additionally, Amelia's world was turned upside down when she discovered she had a brain tumor.

In a similar manner to her battle for her medical license in later seasons of Grey's Anatomy, Meredith once again had to face the consequences of a decision made at her workplace in season 8. On this occasion, it involved her interference in a medical trial during season 7. The intensity of the situation escalated even further because it was Alex who reported her actions. This not only created a rift between them but also caused a divide between Alex and several other colleagues. Moreover, this season showcased the exceptional episode 24, "Flight," which delves into the aftermath of a devastating plane crash, fundamentally altering the show's dynamics going forward.

Season 4

With all the original Grey's Anatomy interns, except for George, passing their exam and advancing to the level of Residents, George remains a second-year intern. His decision to stay behind connects him to the new group of interns at Seattle Grace Memorial Hospital, one of whom happens to be Lexie Grey, Meredith's half-sister. Initially, Lexie starts her internship with the hope of forming a strong bond with Meredith, but her attempts fail to achieve the desired effect. It takes time for Meredith to warm up to Lexie, and their relationship is not particularly cordial before that. The fourth season of the show marked a shift towards character-centric storytelling.

Season 7

Following the events of season 6, the characters find themselves grappling with the aftermath of a devastating shooting incident at the hospital. This leads to a cascade of emotions, as some characters seek solace in new relationships while others struggle to adapt to their altered reality. During this tumultuous time, Meredith uncovers a disheartening revelation about Richard's wife, suggesting the possibility of Alzheimer's. Compelled to assist Adele, she resorts to tampering with a trial, only to face severe consequences when Alex exposes her actions. Consequently, Meredith evicts Alex from her home, and even Derek chooses to distance himself temporarily, as the repercussions of her choices reverberate through everyone's lives. Season 7's drama is portrayed with a raw realism seldom seen in later seasons, serving to underline the capacity of characters to undergo transformations, not all of which may be positive.

Season 12

Season 10

In season 12, Alex rose to the occasion to provide Meredith with unwavering support, particularly in episode 9 titled "The Sound of Silence". During this intense installment, a patient regains consciousness and violently attacks Meredith, necessitating the presence of numerous doctors. Despite the chaos, Alex remains steadfastly by Meredith's side as she gradually recovers. This episode exemplifies season 12's remarkable ability to strike a perfect balance between standalone storytelling and overarching narrative, a trademark of Grey's Anatomy. The culmination of the season entails the joyous union of Amelia and Owen through their wedding, as well as the blessed arrival of April and Jackson's newborn.

Season 10 of Grey's Anatomy is widely remembered for the departure of Cristina Yang, adding to its already emotional content. Unlike other characters who were written off without much fanfare, Cristina's exit was handled exceptionally well. She left the series by taking over Burke's hospital in Switzerland, giving her character a fitting conclusion. Although Cristina hasn't made a physical appearance since then, fans have been treated to text conversations between her and Meredith, leaving the possibility open for her return. This bittersweet change not only tugged at the heartstrings but also showcased the show's ability to carry on without a pivotal character.

Season 1

Few television shows have had as solid a start as Grey's Anatomy, and it was the strength of its characters in season 1 that ensured its longevity. The inaugural season introduced the pivotal romantic relationship between Meredith and Derek, and ended on a shocking note when Meredith and the viewers discovered that Derek was actually married. It was also a defining moment for Miranda Bailey, who was still known for her tough demeanor as a resident, and for Alex Karev, who had plenty of personal growth ahead of him.

Season 11

Despite being hailed as one of the finest installments, the 11th season of Grey's Anatomy had its fair share of unnecessary storylines. One such convoluted plotline was the perplexing demise of Derek, which took place in episode 21, "How to Save a Life". This tragic event prompted Meredith to abruptly flee with her children, Zola and Bailey, leaving her friends in a state of concern and worry. However, it was only after almost a year of her mysterious absence that the audience finally learned what Meredith had been concealing. When Alex tracked down Meredith at a hospital, listed as her emergency contact, she disclosed the existence of a third child – her and Derek's daughter, Ellis.

Season 3

Season 6

The third season marks the final period of Team Magic's internship and it also serves as Addison Montgomery's farewell as a central character, as she departs the show to lead Private Practice. Among the various events of this season, one that deeply impacted Meredith the most was the passing of her mother, Ellis. Additionally, season 3 also signifies the end of Preston Burke's tenure as a central character, as he unexpectedly departs Seattle just moments before his planned wedding with Cristina. Grey's Anatomy season 3 effectively concluded the initial chapter of the show, yet it revealed that there was still much more in store.

After losing George O'Malley, Izzie Stevens decided to leave Seattle and abandon her friends and Alex Karev. However, this was just one of the many conflicts that arose during the sixth season. With the merger of Seattle Grace and Mercy West, Jackson Avery and April Kepner joined the hospital, creating a fierce competition among the doctors to secure their positions. Simultaneously, the doctors of Seattle Grace were still grieving George's death and struggling to move on. The season 6 finale, which showcased a horrifying hospital shooting, remains the highest-rated episode in the history of Grey's Anatomy, demonstrating the series' willingness to explore dark and challenging storylines.

Season 5

Season 9

In Season 5 of the show, a significant turning point occurs with the first primary loss. George O'Malley, who had recently made the decision to join the military, demonstrates his heroism by saving a woman from an imminent collision with a bus. The shocking revelation that John Doe, a patient they had been treating, was actually George, unfolds in the season finale, leaving Meredith and the others devastated. Meanwhile, Izzie's battle with cancer intensifies, adding to the emotional turmoil. Additionally, Season 5 marks the start of a romantic relationship between Callie Torres and Arizona Robbins, as well as the introduction of Owen Hunt.

Following the plane crash in season 8, the aftermath takes a toll on everyone's attempt to regain normalcy. Cristina chooses to distance herself from the hospital by leaving Seattle, while the rest of the characters remain. The deaths of Lexie and Mark leave a deep sense of grief among everyone. Additionally, Meredith becomes the target of the new group of interns, including Jo Wilson, who give her the nickname "Medusa". While season 9 primarily focuses on resolving the aftermath of season 8, it also highlights the overall strength of Grey's Anatomy as a television series. The characters are given the opportunity to evolve in a dynamic and realistic manner, resulting in season 9 being the first time the show becomes self-aware.

Season 2

In the second season of Grey's Anatomy, the show raised the stakes in a remarkable way. Alongside the imminent explosion of a bomb, a series of other nerve-wracking situations jeopardize the characters' lives. Not limited to romantic entanglements, Seattle Grace witnesses an influx of patients with increasingly peculiar conditions. Season 2 marks the origin of the show's trademark unusual surgeries, notably highlighted by the infamous LVAD wire operation in episode 27, titled "Losing My Religion".