What Happened To Riggs On Grey's Anatomy? Unpacking His Exit
Table of Contents
- The Enigmatic Arrival: Who Was Nathan Riggs?
- The Meredith Grey Connection: A Budding Romance
- The Shocking Return of Megan Hunt
- Riggs' Ultimate Choice: A New Beginning
- The Official Reason Behind Martin Henderson's Departure
- Life After Grey's: Where Are Riggs and Megan Now?
- The Lingering Impact: Riggs' Legacy on Grey's Anatomy
- Could Riggs Ever Return to Grey's Anatomy?
The Enigmatic Arrival: Who Was Nathan Riggs?
Dr. Nathan Riggs first made his debut at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital halfway through Season 12 of the series. He was introduced as a cardiothoracic surgeon with a mysterious past, quickly becoming a source of tension and intrigue. From the moment he stepped foot into the hospital, it was clear he was not just another new face. His arrival was shrouded in animosity, particularly from Owen Hunt, setting the stage for a dramatic unraveling of their shared history. Riggs' presence immediately created ripples. He was charming, confident, and possessed a dry wit that often put him at odds with the established doctors, including the infamous Meredith Grey. Viewers were instantly drawn to the mystery surrounding him, especially his connection to Owen. The initial interactions were fraught with unspoken tension, leaving audiences to piece together the puzzle of their past. Interestingly, some viewers even noted his unique vocal delivery, with one observation pointing out, "About 30% of the time he's speaking with a light Australian/New Zealand accent," adding another layer to his character's distinctiveness. This early portrayal of Nathan Riggs on Grey's Anatomy was crucial in establishing him as a character who would profoundly impact the series.A Troubled History with Owen Hunt
When Riggs first appeared on Grey's Anatomy, his history with Owen was a complete mystery. All we knew was Owen hated Riggs on Grey's Anatomy for some reason that was initially inexplicable to viewers. The animosity between them was palpable, leading to confrontations and a palpable sense of unease whenever they were in the same room. Owen's deep-seated resentment fueled much of the early storyline involving Riggs, with cryptic remarks and intense stares serving as clues to a dark, shared past. It was gradually revealed that their strained relationship stemmed from a tragic event involving Owen's sister, Megan Hunt. We’ve known since Owen appeared on Grey’s Anatomy that he lost his sister, Megan, somehow. For years, Owen believed Megan had died while serving overseas as a military doctor, and he blamed Riggs for her presumed death. Riggs, Megan, and Owen were all military doctors, and Megan was Riggs's fiancée. The story unfolded that Megan had disappeared during a mission where Riggs was also present. Owen held Riggs responsible, believing he had abandoned her or was somehow negligent, leading to her capture or death. This deep-rooted grief and blame became a central conflict, defining Owen's character for many seasons and creating a significant hurdle for Riggs to overcome in his new life at Grey Sloan. The revelation of this backstory was a major plot twist during the Grey’s Anatomy Season 12 finale, tying Riggs directly to one of the show's long-standing mysteries.The Meredith Grey Connection: A Budding Romance
Beyond his fraught relationship with Owen, Nathan Riggs quickly developed a compelling dynamic with Meredith Grey. After the devastating loss of Derek Shepherd, Meredith's journey back to love was a central theme for the show. Many fans felt that Derek was the only relevant love interest Meredith Grey ever had on Grey's Anatomy, and finding someone who could even begin to fill that void seemed impossible. However, Nathan Riggs wasn't half bad. Their relationship started tentatively, born out of shared experiences of loss and professional respect. Their connection was slow-burn, evolving from professional colleagues to friends, and eventually, to something more. Meredith, initially resistant to any new romantic entanglement, found herself drawn to Riggs' understanding nature, his ability to challenge her, and his genuine affection. Their romance offered a glimmer of hope for Meredith's future, suggesting that she could indeed find love again after Derek. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and their developing relationship became a significant storyline, providing Meredith with a much-needed emotional anchor and allowing viewers to see her open her heart once more. Their quiet moments, shared vulnerabilities, and the gradual building of trust made their relationship a fan favorite, leading many to wonder what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy that would eventually take him away from Meredith.The Shocking Return of Megan Hunt
Just as Meredith and Riggs' relationship was deepening and seemed to be heading towards a serious commitment, a monumental plot twist rocked the world of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital and, specifically, Nathan Riggs. In a truly unexpected turn of events, Owen Hunt's sister, Megan, who had been presumed dead for a decade, was found alive. This revelation, which occurred during the Season 13 finale, sent shockwaves through the hospital and completely reshaped the lives of Owen, Riggs, and Meredith. The news of Megan's survival came after years of Owen carrying the burden of her loss and his resentment towards Riggs. Her return was a massive storyline, culminating in a dramatic rescue and her subsequent treatment at Grey Sloan. This event was a prime example of Grey's Anatomy's ability to deliver high-stakes drama and unexpected twists. The wildfire raging near Grey Sloan wasn’t the only thing blazing in the fall finale of Grey’s Anatomy; the emotional inferno ignited by Megan's return was just as intense. For highlights from the Season 12 winter finale episode, "Things We Lost in the Fire," viewers were reminded of the constant peril and emotional stakes that define the series.Unraveling the Mystery: Megan's Disappearance
The return of Megan Hunt was not just a plot device; it was an opportunity to finally unravel the mystery surrounding her disappearance and the decade-long animosity between Owen and Riggs. As Megan recovered, more details about her capture and captivity emerged. It was implied that Owen’s mom told her what happened to make Owen hate Riggs, giving Megan a clearer understanding of the burden her brother had carried. Megan's reappearance forced Owen to confront his long-held anger and blame, while Riggs was faced with the woman he had loved and mourned for years. This complex situation put Meredith in an incredibly difficult position. While she had developed deep feelings for Riggs, she understood the profound significance of Megan's return for him. Megan's survival meant that Riggs' past, which had been a source of pain and regret, was now a living, breathing reality. The show expertly navigated the emotional complexities of this love triangle, highlighting the sacrifices and difficult choices that love often demands. The question of what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy now hinged entirely on Megan's miraculous return.Riggs' Ultimate Choice: A New Beginning
With Megan Hunt alive and in need of extensive medical care, Nathan Riggs' priorities shifted dramatically. His love for Megan, which had been dormant for a decade, reignited. Despite his growing feelings for Meredith, Riggs felt an undeniable pull towards his former fiancée, the woman he had believed lost forever. The show portrayed his internal struggle with sensitivity, showcasing his loyalty and the profound bond he shared with Megan. Ultimately, Riggs made the choice to leave Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital to be with Megan and help her rebuild her life. His decision was a selfless one, prioritizing Megan's well-being and their chance at a future together over his burgeoning relationship with Meredith. In the end, Megan and Riggs got their happy ending when she exited the main cast of Grey’s Anatomy in late 2017. They moved to Malibu, California, to start a new life with Megan's adopted son, Farouk. This was a bittersweet departure for fans, as it meant saying goodbye to a character who had become an integral part of Meredith's life, but it also provided a rare "happily ever after" for a Grey's Anatomy couple. It was a clear and definitive answer to what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy – he chose love and a new beginning.The Official Reason Behind Martin Henderson's Departure
While the storyline provided a clear and emotionally resonant reason for Nathan Riggs' exit, the real-world reason behind the character's departure was far less dramatic. With Riggs’ exit from Grey’s Anatomy being due to Martin Henderson’s contract expiring, there was no behind-the-scenes drama surrounding his departure. This allowed Riggs’ exit storyline to be planned in a way that provided closure for the character and for the fans. Unlike some past character departures that were shrouded in controversy or creative differences, Henderson's exit was a straightforward contractual decision. This enabled the writers to craft a fitting and optimistic send-off for Riggs, giving him a happy ending with Megan, a rarity in the often tragic world of Grey's Anatomy. This planned departure allowed the show to tie up loose ends regarding Megan's story and provide a satisfying conclusion to Riggs' arc, rather than an abrupt or forced exit. It underscores the professional nature of television production, where actors' contracts often dictate the longevity of their characters.Life After Grey's: Where Are Riggs and Megan Now?
Even after their departure, fans often wonder about the fates of their favorite characters who leave Grey Sloan. Grey’s Anatomy updated fans on how former main character Nathan Riggs and Megan Hunt’s relationship is going since moving away. In a later episode titled "The Whole Package" (Season 18, Episode 12), Megan returned as a special guest several years later. During her return, she provided an update on her life with Riggs and Farouk. Megan confirmed that she and Riggs were still together and happy in Malibu. She mentioned that Farouk was doing well and that their life together was stable and fulfilling. This update was a comforting piece of information for viewers who had invested in their love story, confirming that their hard-won happy ending had indeed lasted. It was interesting, however, that Riggs wasn’t explicitly mentioned when Megan came back for Farouk’s surgery, leading some fans to wonder if there was more to the story or if it was simply an oversight. Nevertheless, the implication was clear: Nathan Riggs and Megan Hunt found their peace and built a life away from the medical drama of Seattle. This provided a definitive answer to what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy after he left the main cast.Martin Henderson's Career Post-Grey's
As for the actor who brought Nathan Riggs to life, Martin Henderson, his career continued to flourish after his time on Grey's Anatomy. While Henderson is nowadays known for playing Jack Sheridan in Netflix’s Virgin River, he was behind Nathan Riggs in ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy two years prior to Virgin River's premiere. Henderson's role as Jack Sheridan, a kind-hearted bar owner and former Marine, in the popular Netflix series Virgin River has garnered him significant recognition and a new fanbase. This role showcases his versatility as an actor, moving from the high-stakes medical drama of Grey's to the more romantic and character-driven narrative of Virgin River. His continued success demonstrates that while his time as Nathan Riggs was impactful, it was just one chapter in a thriving acting career.The Lingering Impact: Riggs' Legacy on Grey's Anatomy
Despite his relatively short tenure compared to some of the show's original cast members, Nathan Riggs left a significant mark on Grey's Anatomy. His character served multiple crucial purposes within the narrative. He was the catalyst for finally delving into Owen Hunt's long-standing trauma surrounding Megan's disappearance, bringing closure to a storyline that had haunted Owen for years. He also provided Meredith Grey with a genuine opportunity for love after Derek, proving that her heart could heal and open again. Riggs' presence brought a new dynamic to Grey Sloan, challenging established relationships and forcing characters to confront their pasts. His romance with Meredith, while ultimately ending, was a meaningful journey for her character, showcasing her resilience and capacity for happiness. His eventual departure, driven by love and a desire for a peaceful life, was one of the few truly "happy" endings for a character on a show often synonymous with tragedy. The way what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy played out allowed for growth and resolution for multiple characters, solidifying his place as an unforgettable, albeit temporary, fixture in the Grey's universe.Could Riggs Ever Return to Grey's Anatomy?
Given Grey's Anatomy's propensity for bringing back beloved characters, even for brief appearances, the question of whether Nathan Riggs could ever return is one that occasionally surfaces among fans. Megan Hunt herself returned as a special guest several years later, updating fans on her life with Riggs. This precedent certainly leaves the door open, even if only for a cameo. However, Riggs' story concluded with such definitive closure – a happy ending with Megan and Farouk in Malibu – that a return might feel unnecessary or even undermine the peaceful resolution he achieved. Unlike characters whose exits were ambiguous or tragic, Riggs found his "whole package." While it would be a treat for fans to see him again, perhaps a brief mention from Megan or a simple confirmation that he's still happy is enough.Fan Speculation and Unfinished Business
Despite the clear resolution, fan speculation about potential returns is a natural part of any long-running series. Some might argue that Grey's Anatomy can right one of their wrongs by bringing back a forgotten doctor and giving them the closure they deserve 10 years later, but Riggs' case is different. He received a rare and complete happy ending. Any future appearance by Riggs would likely be tied to Megan's character, perhaps if Farouk faced another medical crisis or if Megan needed support for a personal issue. However, the narrative impact of his return would be minimal, as his primary storylines (his conflict with Owen and his romance with Meredith) have both been resolved. For now, what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy seems to be a closed chapter, a testament to a character who found his way to happiness outside the hospital walls.Conclusion
Nathan Riggs' journey on Grey's Anatomy was a compelling arc that brought drama, romance, and resolution to several key storylines. Introduced in Season 12, he quickly became entangled in the complex history of Owen Hunt and the emotional recovery of Meredith Grey. His presence ultimately served as a catalyst for the miraculous return of Megan Hunt, leading to Riggs making the heartfelt choice to leave Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital for a new life with his rediscovered love. His departure, driven by Martin Henderson's contract expiration, was handled with grace, providing a rare and much-deserved happy ending for a character on the show. Today, Nathan Riggs and Megan Hunt are presumed to be living a peaceful life in Malibu, a testament to love's enduring power and the possibility of second chances. Martin Henderson, the actor behind Riggs, has since found success in other popular roles, notably as Jack Sheridan in Netflix's Virgin River. The story of what happened to Riggs on Grey's Anatomy is a reminder that even in a world filled with medical emergencies and personal tragedies, sometimes, characters do get to ride off into the sunset. What are your thoughts on Riggs' exit? Did you wish he had stayed longer, or were you happy with his ending? Share your memories and opinions in the comments below! If you enjoyed this deep dive, be sure to explore our other articles on Grey's Anatomy character analyses and plot recaps.- Rocky Casting
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