Jackson Avery, portrayed by the talented Jesse Williams, made his final regular appearance on Grey’s Anatomy in Season 17, Episode 14, titled “Look Up Child.” This pivotal episode marked the end of an era for a character deeply ingrained in the show’s fabric, leaving fans to grapple with his absence and the implications for the remaining storylines.
The Heart of the Matter: Why Jackson Left
While the on-screen narrative explained Jackson’s departure through his ambition to reform healthcare, the real-world reasons are more nuanced. Jesse Williams’ decision to leave Grey’s Anatomy after twelve seasons stemmed from a desire to pursue other creative endeavors and social justice work. He has been a prominent activist and advocate for racial equality, and his departure allowed him to dedicate more time to these important causes. The show, while saddened by his leaving, ultimately supported his decision, crafting a storyline that honored his character’s legacy.
Jackson’s Journey: A Recap
Jackson Avery arrived at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital as a Mercy West resident, initially appearing as a competitive and privileged surgeon. Over time, he evolved into a compassionate and dedicated doctor, grappling with personal demons, professional challenges, and complex relationships. His bond with April Kepner, their turbulent romance, and the loss of their son Samuel became a central storyline, shaping his character arc significantly. Beyond his personal life, Jackson’s passion for medicine and his desire to make a difference in the lives of his patients solidified his place as a fan favorite.
Impact on April Kepner
Jackson’s departure directly affected April Kepner (Sarah Drew), who returned to the show for “Look Up Child.” The episode revealed that April and Jackson, despite past differences, were still deeply connected. Her relocation to Boston with her daughter Harriet to be with Jackson suggested a potential rekindling of their romance, offering viewers a hopeful glimpse into their future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Jackson Avery’s Departure
H3 1. Why did Jesse Williams leave Grey’s Anatomy?
Jesse Williams left Grey’s Anatomy to dedicate more time to his social justice work and pursue other acting opportunities. After twelve seasons, he felt it was time to explore new challenges and passions.
H3 2. What episode does Jackson Avery officially leave in Grey’s Anatomy Season 17?
Jackson Avery officially leaves in Season 17, Episode 14, “Look Up Child.”
H3 3. Does April Kepner leave with Jackson Avery?
Yes, April Kepner returned for the episode and decided to move to Boston with her daughter Harriet to be with Jackson, suggesting a reconciliation and future together.
H3 4. What is Jackson doing in Boston?
In Boston, Jackson is taking over the Catherine Fox Foundation, aiming to address healthcare inequities and systemic racism within the medical field. This aligned with his growing awareness and commitment to social justice.
H3 5. Will Jackson Avery ever return to Grey’s Anatomy?
While there are no guarantees, Jesse Williams has expressed openness to returning for guest appearances in the future. The door has been left open for his character to revisit Grey Sloan Memorial. He returned in Season 18 for the 400th episode and Season 19, but has not been seen in the show since.
H3 6. What impact does Jackson’s departure have on Meredith Grey?
Jackson’s departure, while not directly impacting Meredith’s medical storyline (at the time focusing on her recovery from COVID-19), signified a significant loss of a colleague and friend at Grey Sloan Memorial. Meredith supported his decision, understanding his commitment to social justice.
H3 7. How did the other doctors at Grey Sloan react to Jackson leaving?
The other doctors, while sad to see him go, generally supported Jackson’s decision. They understood his ambition to make a broader impact on the world beyond the hospital walls.
H3 8. What happened to Jackson Avery’s relationship with Tom Koracick after Jackson left?
Tom Koracick (Greg Germann) also left Grey Sloan to work with Jackson at the Catherine Fox Foundation, further illustrating Jackson’s commitment to his mission and bringing familiar faces to his new endeavor.
H3 9. Did Jackson leave the hospital to focus on his relationship with April?
While a factor, his departure was primarily driven by his desire to address systemic healthcare issues. His relationship with April provided a personal motivation and support system for this significant life change.
H3 10. What does Jackson’s legacy mean for Grey’s Anatomy?
Jackson’s legacy on Grey’s Anatomy is one of growth, compassion, and a commitment to social justice. He evolved from a competitive surgeon to a dedicated doctor striving to make a difference in the world, both within and beyond the hospital.
H3 11. How did fans react to Jackson Avery’s departure?
Fan reactions were mixed. Many were sad to see him go but understood and respected Jesse Williams’ decision. There was also widespread approval of Jackson and April’s implied reunion.
H3 12. What else has Jesse Williams been doing since leaving Grey’s Anatomy?
Since leaving Grey’s Anatomy, Jesse Williams has been actively involved in social justice initiatives, particularly through his work with organizations focused on racial equality and advocacy. He has also continued to pursue acting roles on stage and screen, demonstrating his commitment to diverse creative endeavors. He starred on Broadway in Take Me Out.
The Lasting Impression of Jackson Avery
Jackson Avery’s departure from Grey’s Anatomy marked the end of a chapter, but his impact on the show and its characters remains significant. His evolution from a competitive resident to a socially conscious leader resonated with viewers, leaving a lasting impression on the Grey’s Anatomy universe and its fans. The door remains open for potential returns, leaving fans hoping to see him grace their screens again someday. His commitment to healthcare reform, along with his renewed relationship with April, offered a sense of closure and hope for a character who consistently strived for growth and positive change.