Two Veteran Stars Close Their Long Chapters
Kevin McKidd, who plays trauma surgeon Owen Hunt, has been a cornerstone of Grey’s Anatomy since joining in Season 5 in 2008. Over 18 years, he directed 48 episodes while bringing emotional depth to his character’s military background and transformation into a devoted father. Kim Raver portrays cardiothoracic surgeon Teddy Altman, joining initially as a recurring guest in Season 6 before becoming a series regular. Her 12-season run as a series regular made her essential to the show’s narrative arc.
The duo’s intertwined storylines kept viewers invested through countless on-screen reconciliations and breakups. They married in Season 18, recently divorced this season, but creator Shonda Rhimes promises a bittersweet happy ending for their characters as they exit.
A Creative Decision Marks New Territory
The departures represent a deliberate creative choice by showrunner Meg Marinis and Shonda Rhimes. After nearly two decades of their complicated relationship driving major storylines, the characters’ arc has naturally concluded. Rhimes stated that giving Owen and Teddy the happy ending their story deserves felt both bittersweet and joyful. The show’s creators emphasized this is never a true goodbye, as many past Grey’s Anatomy stars return for guest arcs.
Both actors will fulfill dual roles in their final episode: McKidd will direct his own departure scene, continuing his directorial legacy on the show. Raver has directed three episodes and worked extensively under the mentorship of executive producer Debbie Allen.
Season 22 Finale Details and What’s Next for Season 23
| Element | Details |
| Final Air Date | May 7, 2026 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC |
| Remaining Episodes | 4 episodes left in 18-episode season |
| Season 23 Status | Renewed for 2026-27 TV season on ABC |
| Streaming | Available on Hulu the day after broadcast |
Cast and Crew Share Heartfelt Messages About Extraordinary Journeys
McKidd expressed gratitude for his transformative journey, stating that playing Dr. Hunt and directing shaped him enormously. He credited Rhimes for creating the character and encouraging his directorial pursuits. Raver called her 16-year journey with the series a true gift, thanking showrunners Meg Marinis and Krista Vernoff for guiding Teddy’s evolution. She specifically honored Debbie Allen for mentoring her behind the camera, alongside her passionate castmates and crew.
Will Owen and Teddy Ever Return to Grey Sloan Memorial?
The door remains open for future comebacks. Showrunner Marinis emphasized that the departures are never truly a goodbye, following Grey’s Anatomy’s tradition of welcoming returning cast members for guest arcs. Shonda Rhimes expressed excitement about witnessing where McKidd’s and Raver’s careers will lead them next. Many beloved characters who have left the show over its 22-season run have returned for emotional plot points, suggesting Owen and Teddy could reunite with the Grey Sloan family down the road.