April Kepner and Matthew Taylor’s wedding drama is a memorable storyline in Grey’s Anatomy. The initial wedding does not occur. Instead, April elopes with Jackson Avery in Season 10, Episode 12, “Get Up, Stand Up.” However, Matthew and April eventually do marry years later, during Season 14, Episode 23, “Cold as Ice.”
The Chaotic First Wedding and the Dramatic Elopement
The buildup to April Kepner and Matthew Taylor’s first attempt at a wedding was a classic Grey’s Anatomy rollercoaster. It was meant to be a beautiful, traditional ceremony, celebrating the deeply religious April and the kind, steadfast Matthew. The stage was set, the guests were assembled, and April, in her stunning gown, was ready to walk down the aisle. But fate, as it often does in Shondaland, had other plans.
Jackson Avery’s Confession and the Unforeseen Escape
Just as April was about to say “I do,” Jackson Avery, after a season of pining and internal struggle, stood up and declared his love for her. His impassioned speech, filled with vulnerability and raw emotion, left April completely shaken. In a moment of impulsive decision-making, fueled by years of unspoken feelings, April abandoned her wedding to Matthew and eloped with Jackson. This bold move shocked not only the wedding guests but also the viewers, cementing its place as one of the most talked-about moments in Grey’s Anatomy history.
The Eventual Reconciliation and the Second Wedding
After April and Jackson’s volatile relationship, which included a marriage, a child, and an eventual divorce, April found herself grappling with her faith and her purpose. Matthew, after years of heartbreak and healing, reappeared in her life. He had suffered a devastating loss, the death of his wife, and found solace in working with the homeless population. Their shared faith and empathy led to a rekindling of their connection, albeit a more mature and grounded one.
A Second Chance at Happiness
The wedding in “Cold as Ice” was a stark contrast to the original. This time, it was a quiet, intimate affair, held at a church, surrounded by a smaller group of friends and family. There was no dramatic interruption, no last-minute confession. It was a celebration of two people who had gone through immense pain and found their way back to each other. The episode offered a sense of closure and healing for both April and Matthew, showcasing the possibility of second chances and the enduring power of love.
Why the Original Elopement Was So Controversial
April’s decision to leave Matthew at the altar sparked intense debate among fans. Some lauded her bravery for following her heart, while others criticized her for the pain she inflicted on Matthew. The controversy stemmed from several factors:
- Matthew’s Character: He was consistently portrayed as a genuinely good and kind person, making April’s rejection seem particularly harsh.
- April’s Faith: Her strong religious beliefs, which emphasized commitment and the sanctity of marriage, seemed to contradict her impulsive action.
- Jackson’s Timing: Many felt that Jackson’s declaration was selfish and disrespectful, especially considering the timing.
FAQs About April and Matthew’s Relationship
Here are some frequently asked questions about April and Matthew’s relationship arc, shedding light on their journey and offering additional context:
1. How did Matthew initially react to April leaving him at the altar?
Matthew was, understandably, devastated. The show depicted his heartbreak and confusion, highlighting the emotional turmoil he experienced after being publicly rejected. He initially struggled to understand April’s decision, given her strong faith and their seemingly strong bond.
2. What happened to Matthew after April left him?
After the initial devastation, Matthew dedicated himself to his work and his faith. He eventually met and married another woman, but tragically, she passed away. This loss brought him back into contact with April, leading to their eventual reconciliation.
3. Why did April and Jackson get divorced?
April and Jackson faced numerous challenges throughout their marriage, including differing opinions on faith, career goals, and parenting styles. The loss of their first child, Samuel, put an immense strain on their relationship, ultimately contributing to their eventual separation.
4. What prompted April to start working with the homeless community?
After her divorce from Jackson, April experienced a crisis of faith and a sense of disillusionment. Working with the homeless community allowed her to reconnect with her values and find a renewed sense of purpose, leading to her interaction with Matthew.
5. Did Jackson ever regret declaring his love for April at her wedding?
While Jackson acknowledged the pain he caused Matthew, he never explicitly regretted his decision. He believed that he needed to express his feelings for April, regardless of the consequences. His actions, while controversial, stemmed from a genuine desire to be with her.
6. Was April’s decision to marry Matthew the second time driven by guilt?
While some viewers may have interpreted April’s decision as guilt-driven, the show portrayed it as a genuine reconnection with Matthew based on shared experiences, mutual respect, and a deeper understanding of each other’s values.
7. How did Jackson react to April marrying Matthew the second time?
Jackson, despite having lingering feelings for April, supported her happiness. He realized that their relationship was no longer sustainable and recognized that Matthew could provide April with the stability and faith-based connection she desired.
8. What happened to April and Matthew after they got married the second time?
Following their marriage, April and Matthew relocated to Boston, where they continued their work with the homeless community. April also rejoined the hospital setting in some capacity, focusing on providing medical care to underserved populations.
9. Was there a plan for April and Matthew to end up together all along?
While Shonda Rhimes is known for surprising plot twists, it’s unlikely that the writers had a definitive plan for April and Matthew to end up together from the beginning. The storyline evolved organically, based on the characters’ development and the overall narrative arc of the show.
10. Why did Sarah Drew (April Kepner) leave Grey’s Anatomy?
Sarah Drew’s departure from Grey’s Anatomy was a creative decision made by the showrunners, reportedly for budget reasons. While her exit was met with significant fan backlash, it allowed for the writers to explore new storylines and character dynamics.
11. How did April’s character evolve throughout the series?
April began as an insecure and somewhat awkward intern and gradually transformed into a confident and compassionate trauma surgeon. She grappled with her faith, her relationships, and her own personal growth, becoming one of the most beloved characters on the show. Her journey was marked by both triumphs and tragedies, ultimately shaping her into a resilient and empathetic individual.
12. What impact did April’s character have on Grey’s Anatomy overall?
April’s character brought a unique perspective to Grey’s Anatomy, particularly in terms of her strong religious beliefs and her unwavering dedication to her patients. Her storylines often explored themes of faith, loss, and redemption, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative of the show. She offered a different viewpoint on the ethical dilemmas faced by doctors and the emotional toll of working in a high-pressure environment. Her presence enriched the diverse tapestry of characters that made Grey’s Anatomy such a compelling and enduring series.