I revisited 'Grey’s Anatomy' after years - and it’s still the best emotional rollercoaster on TV

Before the arrival of Covid-19 and streaming platforms becoming a lifeline during those dark days of lockdown, I remember religiously sitting in front of my TV on a Monday night, waiting for the latest episode of “Grey’s Anatomy” to drop.

On most days, my bestie was right beside me, revelling in the ride-or-die bond between Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh) and Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo).

In those days, swooning over McDreamy (Patrick Dempsey as Dr Derek Shepherd) and McSteamy (Eric William Dane as Dr Mark Sloane) was a thing. If you know, you know. 

But I’m not going to lie, Shonda Rhimes had me in my feels. I loved her and hated her (in the best way, of course) for it. But such is the showrunner-cum-creator’s Midas touch: she will leave the most stoic person an emotional mess.

That “Grey’s Anatomy” has been running for 22 seasons is a testament to the show’s formula for success. Aside from the stellar casting, mesmerising story arcs, and dovetailing of personal and professional upsets, it’s a show that has truly stood the test of time. 

Why am I singing the praises of the show as if I were on Rhimes’s payroll? Well, I recently decided, after missing several seasons, to catch the latest season on Disney+. 

Of the two episodes available, I can honestly say all these praiseworthy things with conviction. It’s just that damn good. 

Now let's get into it. We have the OGs at the helm: Pompeo, Miranda Bailey ( Chandra Wilson), Richard Webber (James Pickens Jr.) Owen Hunt (Kevin McKidd), Amelia Shepherd (Caterina Scorsone), and Jo Wilson (Camilla Luddington). 

Then there are the other prominent supporting characters like Catherine Fox (Debbie Allen), Ben Warren (Jason George), Teddy Altman (Kim Raver), and Atticus "Link" Lincoln (Chris Carmack).

That’s not forgetting Nick Marsh (Scott Speedman), Dani Spencer (Jade Pettyjohn) and Cass Beckman (Sophia Bush).

Of course, no season is complete without fresh interns added to the mix.

The new season kicked off on an explosive note, literally and figuratively. A catastrophic hospital explosion results in utter mayhem. 

Some surgeons were trapped in operating rooms, struggling to maintain a sense of calm while forced to make tough calls. 

Aside from triumphant saves, there were losses that the team struggled with. Meredith’s do-or-die attitude and blinding optimism are a silver lining among the chaos. 

Despite being injured, Richard refuses to sit idly by. Aside from providing sage advice, especially to Teddy, who is struggling to balance work amid her failed relationship with Owen, he remains that steady rock at Grey Sloan.

Meanwhile, Miranda’s relationship with Ben is stronger than ever.  A heavily pregnant Jo goes into overprotective mode when Link is injured while he is forced to confront emotions he’s been suppressing. 

Then there’s the interns clamouring to be roped into surgeries and interesting case studies. The rivalry goes into overdrive, but that is the norm. 

Supporting story arcs of romances, breakups and betrayals are injected into the narrative. 

As always, the emergency cases are as fascinating as the mayhem around the diagnosis and treatment.

The casting is truly a dream. And the main cast makes viewers feel at home with their compelling stories. 

The series itself is beautifully shot, capturing heart-warming moments with the same gusto it does the emergencies, meltdowns and conflicts. 

I dare you to watch the episodes available and not be left moist-eyed. 

As far as medical dramas go, this is not just one of the best; it has set a benchmark. And that’s a legacy Rhimes can forever be proud of. 

By the way, the upcoming episodes feature surgeries and tough calls that will test the staff in ways they couldn’t imagine. 

Also, the gorgeous Dr Jackson Avery (Jesse Williams) makes a guest appearance. Silently screams. 

Rating: **** a standout series with exceptional qualities.