Grey’s Anatomy Finale Shocks with 2 Major Diagnoses: What’s Next for Beloved Stars?

CAUTION: This summary contains key plots from Season 22 Episode 6, “When I Crash,” of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy.

As hinted by the previews, tonight’s Grey’s Anatomy fall finale brought high stakes for two of Grey Sloan’s own: Teddy (Kim Raver), caught under a toppling bus, and Jo (Camilla Luddington), whose life hung in the balance with Winston (Anthony Hill) informing Link (Chris Carmack) about her critical heart condition.

Thus, while Jo’s diagnosis of peripartum cardiomyopathy was anticipated, the show still managed to shock us at the last moment when Richard (James Pickens, Jr.) disclosed his cancer diagnosis.

This revelation came after an episode filled with unusual tension between Miranda (Chandra Wilson) and Richard as they clashed heads several times, notably over a patient from the bus accident who survived because Richard ignored Miranda’s directive to cease resuscitation. It turns out, Richard’s distraction was due to his anxiety over pending biopsy results.

Misfortune seems to follow Jo and Link this season. After Link’s near-fatal experience in the season opener, it was Jo and her unborn children’s turn to face danger in this episode.

After exerting herself in a challenging delivery at 30 weeks and noticing symptoms on her way home, Jo returned to Grey Sloan with Link. What started as a routine examination quickly turned dire as Jo’s shortness of breath led to a diagnosis of peripartum cardiomyopathy. Initially, the condition seemed manageable with medication or a heart pump, but the situation deteriorated rapidly in the OR, leading to a critical moment for Jo and her babies. With no OBGYNs available, Winston had to perform his first C-section since medical school. The outcome remains to be seen until the show returns on January 7.

Grey’s Anatomy, famed for its nail-biting season finales, had already seen the death of one doctor earlier this season. Both Luddington and Pickens Jr., who are fundamental to the series, are confirmed to appear in most of this season’s episodes without hints of an early exit.

Post the explosive Season 22 premiere, showrunner Meg Marinis assured that Jo and Link’s babies would be delivered, hinting at a hopeful outcome despite the previous season’s cliffhanger that threatened Link’s life.

Pickens Jr., a staple from the original cast, continues to feature prominently in the series, unaffected by his character’s latest health scare. Historically, the show has portrayed several characters who have battled cancer, including Richard’s wife Catherine (Debbie Allen).

While Jo and Richard grappled with grave health issues, Teddy, despite the dangerous teasers, emerged unscathed from under the bus after helping another victim.

The romantic subplot took a hit as Owen’s fleeting romance with an old friend, Nora (Floriana Lima), collapsed under complicated circumstances after Teddy, and their children walked in on them. By day’s end, Nora chose to step back due to her professional ties with Teddy, while Teddy and Owen confronted the reality of their feelings amid discussions of their hastened divorce.

In a twist with the interns/residents, Kwan (Harry Shum Jr.) and new plastic surgeon Kavita (Anita Kalathara) finally gave in to their building tension with a kiss in one of Grey’s famed elevator scenes.

Simone (Alexis Floyd) and Wes (Trevor Jackson) also shared a tender moment, spurred by his empathetic handling of an autistic patient. Despite the romantic tension, Simone resisted further involvement.

Jules, who had pledged with Simone to stay focused on work, faltered by inviting Winston to a group outing, further blurring professional lines. This trend of questionable workplace relationships continues with Kwan and Kavita now part of the mix.

New intern Dani (recurring guest star Jade Pettyjohn) returned after a memorable debut, and Harrison (Anton Starkman), another intern, began to emerge as a more prominent character. Helm (Jaicy Elliot) also made her long-awaited return this season.

As Grey’s Anatomy wound down its fall episodes, many fans expressed disbelief at the rapid passage of the season.

Comments ranged from shock at reaching the fall finale so soon to nostalgia for the days of longer seasons that included holiday specials. Another ABC drama, High Potential, wrapped its fall season even earlier on October 28.

Fortunately, in a break from traditional late-winter returns, all ABC fall scripted series, including Grey’s, will resume in early January, with the next episode set for January 7.