Kevin McKidd Reflects on His Journey and Departure from Grey’s Anatomy After 18 Seasons
Grey’s Anatomy Finale Marks Departure of Two Longtime Cast Members
In a significant turn of events, Grey’s Anatomy bid farewell to two of its longest-standing cast members during the Season 22 finale aired on Thursday, as Kevin McKidd’s character Owen and Kim Raver’s Teddy took a leap into new opportunities, leaving Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
The episode, directed by McKidd himself, follows the aftermath of a catastrophic bridge collapse that disrupts the trauma bay at Grey Sloan. This incident affects several characters, including Owen, whose vehicle is seen going over the edge in the disaster.
Owen emerges with only minor injuries and promptly takes action, searching the wreckage for survivors. He quickly locates a family in dire need of medical assistance and remains by their side until paramedics arrive. Demonstrating his commitment, he rides in the back of an ambulance, determined to reach the operating room and save their lives.
Faced with yet another life-changing moment, Owen reflects on his future and decides to move to Paris with Teddy and their children for her new job opportunity. Their final moments on screen embody a happy ending for the enduring couple after a tumultuous season.
In a recent interview, McKidd elaborated on his dual role as both director and actor for this pivotal episode, expressing pride in the project. “This feels like a lot to take on — the finale episode and me exiting and Kim exiting — but I’m really glad I did. It felt empowering,” he said. The ambitious bridge collapse sequence, he noted, added considerable emotional depth, crafting a significant conclusion for his character.
Addressing the complexity of the production, McKidd shared that the massive set required extensive preparation, making it one of the most challenging he had directed. He recalled the emotional weight of wrapping up the shoot and catching a flight to Scotland for a new project, reflecting on the journey he had undergone during his time on the show.
As filming wrapped, McKidd expressed his anticipation for the audience’s reception of the finale, stating, “I think it completes the journey of Owen in a really beautiful way.” He highlighted how the episode symbolizes Owen’s healing from the traumas of his past, culminating in a metaphorical resolution as he helps save the family trapped in the crushed car.
McKidd elaborated on the development of Owen and Teddy’s relationship throughout the season, suggesting that their journey of reconnection culminated in the realization of their mutual dependence. “Sometimes you have to walk away from something to know that you need it in your life,” he remarked.
Outside his relationship with Teddy, Owen’s character has faced numerous challenges, including family health crises, which have profoundly influenced his decisions. McKidd emphasized that family remains paramount to Owen, revealing that the events have led Owen to embrace his life and loved ones more fully.
Reflecting on the unique longevity of Grey’s Anatomy, McKidd expressed his gratitude for the series and its role in his life, acknowledging how the show has evolved alongside the changing television landscape. He indicated his willingness to return to the show, whether to direct or reprise his role as Owen, asserting, “It really is like my family and my home.”
As he steps away from Grey’s Anatomy, McKidd is already engaged in new ventures. He recently traveled to Scotland to work on a role in Highlander and is set to begin filming a psychological thriller titled The Only Suspect in London. Additionally, he announced new developments for his production company, Ferryman Films, which has entered into a partnership with STV and is exploring various projects.
With exciting new horizons ahead, McKidd looks forward to embracing his evolving career trajectory beyond the beloved medical drama.
