Unveiling the Epic Love Story of Izzie and Alex on Grey's Anatomy: A Detailed Timeline

Summary

Izzie and Alex's relationship is unexpected but heartfelt, and their obstacles and arguments make for unforgettable moments in Grey's Anatomy.

Initially, Alex reveals Izzie's modeling photos, but as their relationship evolves, he begins to appreciate her self-assurance, leading them to bond over their mutual aspiration of becoming accomplished doctors.

Despite encountering various challenges, such as a disappointing first date and Alex's unfaithfulness, Izzie and Alex ultimately reconcile and achieve a gratifying conclusion, though their journey remains emotionally turbulent.

Izzie Stevens (Katherine Heigl) and Alex Karev's (Justin Chambers) complex and enduring relationship is one of the most memorable love stories in Grey's Anatomy. Initially, their romance is unexpected, as they don't see eye to eye as interns at Seattle Grace Hospital. However, both characters come from troubled backgrounds and share a common aspiration to excel in their medical careers. While Grey's Anatomy often showcases characters falling in love due to the close proximity of their work, there is something truly special and heartfelt about this particular pair. Their obstacles and disputes give rise to some of the most unforgettable moments in this long-running medical drama.

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Season 1, Episode 1, "A Hard Day's Night" - Izzie And Alex Meet As Interns

: Despite the show's central focus on Meredith Grey and Derek Shepherd's love story, Izzie and Alex also have a significant and compelling romantic relationship. Although they go through a period of separation in the Grey's Anatomy timeline, they eventually find their way back to each other. While Meredith mourns the loss of her soulmate Derek, Izzie and Alex's journey towards their own happy ending is just as emotionally charged as their other interactions.

In the first episode of Grey's Anatomy, a group of interns consisting of Izzie, Alex, Meredith, George O'Malley (T.R. Knight), and Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh) come together. While the series primarily revolves around Meredith, the focus also extends to Cristina as she is Meredith's closest confidant. The pilot offers brief introductions to George, Izzie, and Alex, setting the stage for their character development throughout the rest of the initial season.

There is a lack of indication that sparks exist between Alex and Izzie. Both individuals seem somewhat distant and concentrated on their respective new professions, disregarding the opportunity to acquaint themselves with one another. This initial impression holds significance as, in a few episodes, Izzie and Alex will perceive each other in a contrasting manner and subsequently form a bond.

Season 1, Episodes 2-9 - Izzie And Alex Focus On Their Internships, He Exposes Her Modeling Photos

Izzie proves her potential as a skilled doctor in "The First Cut is the Deepest," season 1, episode 2. While their interactions are limited in subsequent episodes, Alex unveils pictures of Izzie modeling lingerie for Bethany Whisper in episode 4, titled "No Man's Land." This revelation prompts Alex to reassess his judgmental and immature behavior, as Izzie demonstrates her perseverance in earning money to support her medical education. Despite ongoing disagreements, Alex also begins to appreciate Izzie's confident attitude towards her abilities.

Season 2, Episodes 1-3 - Alex And Izzie Bond And Work Together

In season 2, episode 1 titled "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head," Alex and Izzie engage in flirtatious exchanges. Additionally, Izzie enlightens Alex on the importance of displaying compassion towards patients, rather than solely focusing on their diagnoses. Alex's concern for a patient named Joe, who has suffered from an aneurysm, brings out a kinder side of him that surprises Izzie.

These episodes mark a turning point for Alex, as he starts to shed his stereotypical image as the dominant figure on campus. This allows Izzie to discover more about his character. The journey towards becoming one of Grey's Anatomy's most beloved couples commences as the characters can no longer deny their feelings for each other.

Season 2, Episode 4, "Deny, Deny Deny" - Alex And Izzie Have A Lackluster First Date

Despite being intelligent and ambitious individuals, Izzie and Alex struggle on their first date in season 2, episode 4, "Deny, Deny, Deny." Izzie becomes upset when Alex refrains from kissing her, and he further displays his stubborn and secretive nature by avoiding any mention of his board exam failure.

Both Izzie and Alex find it challenging to be open and honest with each other, and it takes them some time before they can reach that level of vulnerability. This rough patch in their relationship is a significant hurdle for them in Grey's Anatomy.

Season 2, Episodes 5-9 - Izzie And Alex Share Their First Kiss And Are In A Happy Place

This marks a significant turning point in the newfound relationship between Izzie and Alex, as doubts about Alex's true emotions arise and his fear of honesty becomes apparent. Alex, a beloved character in Grey's Anatomy, is admired for his self-awareness and determination to improve himself, which leads him to confront his feelings for Izzie. Through his connection with Izzie, Alex undergoes notable personal growth.

In the seventh episode of season 2, titled "Something To Think About," Alex exhibits bravery by initiating a kiss with Izzie at Emerald City Bar. The romance progresses further in the eighth episode, "Let It Be," where they share another passionate kiss within the hospital. Their relationship appears to be flourishing during this stage of the series.

Season 2, Episode 10, "Much Too Much" - Alex Is Unfaithful And Sleeps With Olivia

Although Alex seems to be maturing, he makes a significant error when he starts his new relationship with Izzie, causing a major setback for them both. Out of fear of being rejected by Izzie, he makes the mistake of sleeping with Nurse Olivia Harper (played by Sarah Utterback).

Understandably, Izzie is devastated, and it seems like their relationship is over. However, in true Grey's Anatomy fashion, where couples break up and make up multiple times, there is a strong possibility that they will eventually reconcile. This intense storyline serves as a turning point for Alex, as he realizes his wrongdoing and desires to be a faithful partner to Izzie.

Season 2, Episodes 11-20 - Alex And Izzie Sleep Together But Remain Broken Up

In the upcoming episodes, Alex and Izzie purposely avoid each other at the hospital due to their hurt feelings and the awkwardness they are experiencing. Their focus shifts primarily towards the medical cases of the week instead of their personal relationship.

However, in season 2, episode 16, titled "It's the End of the World," their fear arises when a patient arrives with a bomb in their chest. In this tense situation, Izzie, uncertain of their survival, asks Alex if he would sleep with her. It's important to note that this does not mean Izzie and Alex are getting back together.

As the season progresses to episode 20, titled "Band-Aid Covers The Bullet Hole," Izzie develops strong feelings for patient Denny Duquette (Jeffrey Dean Morgan). Feeling that she can move on from Alex, she starts to distance herself from their past relationship.

Season 2, Episodes 21-27 - Izzie And Denny Get Engaged And Denny Dies

Season 3, Episode 1-Season 4, Episode 17 - Izzie And Alex Are In Other Relationships

When Izzie is assigned to Denny, a strong bond instantly forms between them, causing her to distance herself from Alex. Izzie and Denny engage in a passionate and whirlwind love affair, culminating in a marriage proposal. In a desperate attempt to expedite a heart transplant for Denny, Izzie takes the drastic measure of severing his LVAD wire. Surprisingly, Izzie manages to avoid termination despite her questionable actions. This storyline remains one of the most perplexing and emotionally intense arcs involving Izzie on Grey's Anatomy. She willingly jeopardizes her career for the sake of love and is devastated by Denny's untimely death from a stroke in season 2, episode 27, "Losing My Religion."

During seasons 3 and 4 of Grey's Anatomy, Alex and Izzie find themselves separated and exploring new connections with other individuals. This period of being apart enables both Izzie and Alex to develop as individuals, transcending their roles as mere romantic partners and adding depth to their characters in the series.

In season 3, a surprising development occurs as Izzie and George start a romantic relationship despite George's marriage to Callie Torres (Sara Ramirez). This unexpected twist takes many fans by surprise, as there had been no previous indications of romantic interest between the two. Meanwhile, Alex finds himself falling in love with Rebecca Pope (Elizabeth Reaser), initially known as Ava, who is struggling to come to terms with her amnesia and troubled marriage to Jeff (Jason London). Both Alex and Izzie find themselves opening up to these new connections, yet they still feel that something is missing, ultimately drawing them back to each other.

Season 5, Episodes 1-6 - Alex And Izzie Get Back Together And Alex Wonders If They Are Truly Committed

Although Izzie and Denny are considered one of the most beloved couples on Grey's Anatomy because of their intense emotional connection, Izzie also has genuine feelings for Alex. At the start of season 5, these characters find their way back to each other after some time apart. This separation allowed them to grow individually, leading to a deeper and more meaningful relationship when they finally reunite.

Season 5, Episodes 7-21 - Izzie Is Sick, And Her Relationship With Alex Is In Jeopardy

Izzie and Alex long for one another, and it is evident that the profound connection they established in season 1, where they shared their troubled pasts of unstable homes and neglectful parents, remains unbroken. As Alex inquires whether they are seeing other people or exclusively devoted to each other, this question acts as a catalyst for their imminent nuptials, allowing them to finally make a lasting commitment.

In the upcoming episodes of season 5, Izzie starts perceiving the presence of Denny and senses his continued existence. Due to her terminal cancer, Izzie experiences hallucinations of Denny and even engages in a sexual encounter with him within her hallucinatory state. However, she chooses not to conceal these visions from Alex, indicating a positive shift in their relationship despite the challenging circumstances.

Season 5, Episode 22, "What A Difference A Day Makes" - Alex And Izzie Get Married

This is a terrifying and heart-wrenching moment for Alex, who is filled with the fear of losing Izzie now that he has finally won her back. Equally distressed, Izzie finds herself grappling with the devastating reality of being diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. As she faces the uncertain road ahead, she manages to find solace in the memories of all those times she offered comfort to patients in similar circumstances.

During her illness, Izzie finds solace in assisting Meredith with her dream wedding, diverting her attention away from her own ailment. Surprisingly, Meredith decides to alter the plans and bestows upon Izzie and Alex the opportunity to marry on the same day she and Derek had originally planned. This heartfelt act stands out as one of the most touching moments in the entire series. The wedding episode in Grey's Anatomy holds immense significance as the solemn vows of "sickness and in health" come to life, with Alex serving as a pillar of support for his unwell spouse.

Season 5, Episodes 23-Season 6, Episode 4 - Izzie Has Surgery, And The Couple Moves Into Derek's Trailer

Season 6, Episode 5, "Invasion" - Izzie Is Fired And Leaves Seattle

After opting for surgery, Izzie's decision prompts Alex to open up about his emotions. He showcases his fear of losing his wife, only to find that her surgery goes smoothly. In the beginning of the sixth season, the couple takes up residence in Derek's trailer, leading to a humorous twist when Alex encounters a bear and becomes anxious. This amusing incident serves as a bright spot in their enduring relationship, counteracting the prevailing stress and sadness. At this juncture in the series, it appears that Izzie and Alex's journey is heading towards a more positive trajectory.

Despite being regarded as one of the finest doctors at Grey's Anatomy for her boldness, confidence, and natural abilities, Izzie is not immune to making mistakes. In the early stages of season 6, she commits a grave error in administering dialysis to a patient, leading to the unfortunate consequence of jeopardizing the patient's chances of receiving a kidney transplant. The gravity of this costly blunder results in Izzie losing her job. Furthermore, this misstep acts as a turning point in her relationship with Alex. Instead of confiding in her spouse and seeking his support, Izzie chooses to shatter his heart and make the decision to depart from Seattle, where he is on a promising career path.

Season 6, Episodes 6-11 - Alex Worries, Izzie Comes Back, And The Couple Has Problems

Season 6, Episode 12, "I Like You So Much Better When You're Naked" - Alex Ends The Relationship With Izzie, And She Leaves For Good

As Izzie is on a hiatus, Alex finds himself shouldering the burden of paying for her hospital expenses during her battle with cancer, showcasing his responsible nature in contrast to her impulsive tendencies. This shift in roles from their initial connection in the first season of Grey's Anatomy is evident. However, when Izzie returns in season 6, episode 9, "New History," Alex is filled with too much resentment to forgive her, signifying that their relationship is definitively over at this point in the series.

Izzie bid farewell to Grey's Anatomy during season 6, her departure coinciding with her attempt to salvage her relationship with Alex. In a heart-to-heart conversation, Alex candidly expressed his longing for a devoted, empathetic, and dependable companion, conveying to Izzie that their love saga had come to an end due to their inability to fulfill these expectations for each other. The subsequent course of Izzie's journey remained shrouded in mystery for several seasons. However, one undeniable outcome of their tumultuous connection was that Alex became well-acquainted with the art of placing trust in others and ensuring that his future partner wouldn't flee at the first sign of trouble.

Season 6, Episode 13-Season 12, Episode 2- Alex Moves On And Commits To Jo

Season 12, Episode 3, "I Choose You" - Jo Learns Alex And Izzie Could Have Children Together

After parting ways with Izzie, Alex develops strong feelings for his colleague Lucy Fields (Rachael Taylor) during the seventh season, bringing him closer to Meredith. However, it is in the ninth season that he truly falls in love with Jo Wilson (Camilla Luddington), and their relationship becomes more serious in seasons 11 and 12. Despite seeming content and having found his perfect match, Alex's past with Izzie is poised to resurface and haunt him in the twelfth season.

Despite Jo and Alex appearing to be a perfect match, Jo's world is turned upside down when she uncovers a startling secret. It is revealed that Alex has been financially supporting the fertility treatments of his ex-wife, Izzie. They had made the decision to freeze embryos while Izzie was undergoing medical treatment, without informing Jo. As Jo grapples with the fear of being left behind, given her tumultuous past including an abusive marriage, Alex attempts to reassure her and urges her to let go of the situation. Meanwhile, the series teases the possibility of Izzie posing a threat to Alex's newfound relationship.

Season 12, Episodes 4-Season 16, Episode 15 - Alex And Jo Get Married And Have A Happy Relationship

Season 16, Episode 16, "Leave A Light On" - Alex Learns Izzie Is Raising Their Kids And Moves To Be With Them

After reconciling their differences, Alex and Jo maintain a harmonious bond that endures through seasons 12 and 13. In a heartwarming twist, they finally tie the knot in season 14, episode 24 titled "All Of Me." Their married life is blissful, mainly because Alex has evolved into a reliable partner since Izzie's departure, embodying the stability he always aspired to provide. Alex's unwavering commitment to Jo exemplifies how his personal growth in his previous relationship with Izzie was not merely fleeting but had lasting effects.

The final storyline of Alex and Izzie in Grey's Anatomy takes an unpopular turn as Alex writes a letter of recommendation for Meredith and then contacts Izzie. As they reminisce about their past, Alex realizes that Izzie has been raising their twins, Eli and Alexis. This revelation about his unexpected family causes Alex to pause and reflect. After reconnecting with Izzie and meeting his children, he makes a life-changing decision.

Meredith discovers a letter penned by Alex, revealing his departure from Jo in order to pursue a committed relationship with Izzie. This unexpected twist creates a conflicting mix of happiness for Alex and Izzie, yet casts a shadow over their blissful resolution due to Jo's heartache. In the wake of countless trials and tribulations, Izzie and Alex find their way back to each other behind the scenes on Grey's Anatomy, leaving Jo to embark on her own path of healing and moving forward.