Shonda Rhimes, the mastermind behind Grey's Anatomy, has never shied away from making bold, often heartbreaking decisions about her beloved characters. Over the years, she’s gained a reputation for ruthlessly pulling the rug out from under fans with shocking plot twists and emotional goodbyes. But, as time has passed, it turns out even she has her moments of regret—especially when it comes to one character she wishes had a different fate.
Since its debut in 2005, Grey's Anatomy has seen an array of characters walk through the halls of Seattle Grace (now Grey Sloan Memorial) Hospital. With each passing season, fans have had to say goodbye to some of their favorite doctors. Whether they left for personal reasons, were killed off in heart-wrenching episodes, or simply vanished without much explanation, these departures always leave a mark.
And while Grey’s fans continue to cope with these losses, Shonda herself has admitted that there are some characters she would love to see back on the show.
Fans might immediately think of Cristina Yang or Derek Shepherd, two of the most iconic figures in the show's history. After all, these characters were cornerstones of the series, and their exits left fans reeling.
But as surprising as it might be, Shonda’s deepest regret isn't tied to these fan-favorites. In a recent interview, Rhimes revealed that if she could bring back any character, it would be George O'Malley, played by T.R. Knight.
George’s death in the show’s sixth season still lingers as one of the most emotional moments in Grey’s Anatomy history. The kind-hearted, somewhat awkward doctor met his end in a devastating accident, leaving fans and characters alike heartbroken.
According to Rhimes, George's departure is one of her biggest regrets. She fondly remembers the way George connected with viewers, his sincerity, and how he always seemed to make even the toughest moments feel lighter. It’s no wonder that his exit, while powerful, is something she wishes she could reverse.
“I loved George,” Rhimes shared. “I always thought he had so much more to give, and it’s one of those things I’d change if I could.” For fans who’ve rewatched his story arc multiple times, this statement resonates deeply.
George wasn’t just another doctor—he was a friend, a confidant, and someone who always brought heart to the show.
But it's not just about George. Shonda also spoke about her fondness for Derek Shepherd, the dashing neurosurgeon whose tragic death in season 11 rocked the Grey’s fandom to its core.
His emotional beach reunion with Meredith during her COVID-induced coma in season 17 gave fans a brief glimpse of what could have been, leaving them yearning for more. However, Rhimes insists that the beauty of Grey’s Anatomy lies in its ability to stir emotions, reminding us that not every story gets a happy ending.
As much as Shonda wishes she could bring these characters back, she acknowledges that their stories—especially their heartbreaking endings—are part of what makes the show so captivating.
It’s these moments of loss and love that keep the audience glued to their screens, season after season.
With Grey’s Anatomy still going strong, some might wonder if Shonda could be tempted to bring these beloved characters back in some form. After all, Derek and George did appear briefly in Meredith’s dream sequence, and the door is always open for more unexpected twists. While Shonda may no longer be the showrunner, fans can’t help but dream of another surprise return.
Despite her regrets, Shonda is proud of the legacy these characters have left behind. Their stories continue to live on in the hearts of fans, and, in true Grey’s fashion, their memories are woven into the fabric of the show.
It’s no secret that Grey’s Anatomy has shaped the landscape of television drama, and characters like George O'Malley and Derek Shepherd are a huge part of its success. Do you miss these characters as much as Shonda does? Or are you satisfied with the way their stories ended? Share your thoughts below!
