Let's dive into the world of Grey's Anatomy and explore the thoughts and feelings of Kevin McKidd, the actor behind the controversial character, Dr. Owen Hunt.
The End of an Era
For those who have been loyal viewers of Grey's Anatomy, the recent departure of Owen Hunt has sparked a range of emotions. McKidd, who has portrayed Owen for 18 seasons, has some strong opinions about how his character's story should have ended.
A Hero's Death?
McKidd envisioned a heroic demise for Owen, a character who entered the show as a broken man, haunted by the loss of his platoon in Iraq. He believed Owen's redemption arc should culminate in a selfless act, sacrificing his life to save others. It's an intriguing idea, but one that McKidd's character, Owen, may not have deserved, in my opinion.
Showrunner's Decision
Meg Marinis, the showrunner, had a different vision. She argued that the audience had endured enough grief and loss with recent character deaths, and the world was already dark and scary enough. Marinis wanted Owen to survive, and her reasoning is understandable. Death is a powerful narrative tool, but it can also be overused, leaving viewers numb to the impact.
A New Chapter
McKidd eventually came around to Marinis' idea, and I must say, the ending they crafted for Owen and his on-again, off-again love interest, Dr. Teddy Altman, is quite satisfying. They reunite and move to Paris, with Owen taking a backseat to Teddy's career. It's a refreshing change, as Teddy has often been the one following Owen's lead.
Owen's Evolution
McKidd highlights Owen's growth, noting that he finally realizes it's his turn to follow Teddy and let her take the lead. This evolution is a welcome development, showing that even the most stubborn characters can change and adapt.
A Rugged Future
McKidd jokes that Owen might not take to Paris, being a bit too rugged for the city of love. It's a funny image, but it also speaks to Owen's character, who has always been a bit of a loner, struggling with his past traumas.
The Threat of Return
While McKidd hasn't ruled out a potential guest appearance for Owen and Teddy, I, for one, hope they stay in Paris and enjoy their new life together. Grey's Anatomy has a way of bringing back characters, and while it can be exciting, it also runs the risk of overstaying its welcome.
Final Thoughts
The ending for Owen Hunt was a thoughtful and well-executed decision by the showrunners. It allowed for character growth and a fresh start, while also providing a sense of closure for viewers. While some may have preferred a more dramatic exit, the show's decision to have Owen survive sends a powerful message about resilience and the possibility of a new beginning.
