Mark Sloan (McSteamy) and Lexie Grey, two of Grey’s Anatomy’s most beloved characters, tragically passed away in the Season 8 finale plane crash. While they never “come back” in a conventional sense, their presence is powerfully felt in Season 17, Episode 10, “Breathe,” when Meredith Grey, battling a severe case of COVID-19, envisions them on her mystical beach. This single episode serves as their poignant return, offering closure and heartwarming reconnection.
Meredith’s Beach: A Realm of Reunions
The impact of Mark and Lexie’s appearance transcends mere cameos. The “beach” becomes a recurring motif throughout Season 17, representing Meredith’s subconscious and her struggle between life and death. The reunions are not literal resurrections but powerful projections of Meredith’s desires, regrets, and ultimately, her will to live. The emotional weight carried by these scenes is significant, reminding viewers of the enduring bonds formed within the Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
The Symbolic Power of the Beach
The setting itself is crucial. The beach, a neutral, serene space, symbolizes peace and reflection. It’s a place where Meredith can confront her past traumas and connect with lost loved ones without the constraints of reality. This provides viewers with the opportunity to grieve alongside her and find solace in the idea that these characters, though gone, are not forgotten.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Mark and Lexie’s Return
The return of Mark and Lexie understandably sparked a wave of questions from dedicated fans. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked inquiries.
FAQ 1: Is their return permanent?
No, Mark and Lexie’s appearance is not a permanent resurrection. They appear in Meredith’s dream-like state while she battles COVID-19. Their role is to provide comfort and guidance as she navigates her near-death experience.
FAQ 2: How many episodes do Mark and Lexie appear in Season 17?
Mark appears in three episodes: “Breathe” (Episode 10), “Helplessly Hoping” (Episode 11), and “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” (Episode 13). Lexie appears solely in “Breathe” (Episode 10) alongside Mark.
FAQ 3: Why did they choose that episode specifically?
“Breathe” marked a critical point in Meredith’s battle with COVID-19. It was a moment where her fate hung in the balance. Bringing back Mark and Lexie at this pivotal juncture underscores the importance of family and connection in overcoming adversity. Their presence encourages her to fight for her life and return to her children.
FAQ 4: What did Mark and Lexie say to Meredith?
Their dialogues are deeply emotional. Mark reflects on his life and his love for Callie and Sofia. Lexie encourages Meredith to consider what she’s fighting for, subtly urging her to return to her children. Their conversations offer Meredith perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. They are not simply providing exposition; they are offering their love and wisdom.
FAQ 5: Were the actors, Eric Dane and Chyler Leigh, willing to return?
Yes, both Eric Dane and Chyler Leigh were reportedly enthusiastic about reprising their roles. They understood the significance of these cameos for the fans and the show’s narrative. Their willingness to participate contributed to the authenticity and emotional resonance of the scenes.
FAQ 6: Did other deceased characters appear on Meredith’s beach?
Yes, Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey) also appeared prominently on the beach throughout Season 17. His presence, along with Mark and Lexie’s, underscored the theme of loss and the enduring power of love. He was the first deceased character to appear, setting the precedent for other returns.
FAQ 7: How did fans react to Mark and Lexie’s return?
The reaction was overwhelmingly positive and emotional. Fans celebrated the opportunity to see Mark and Lexie one last time, even if it was in a dream-like setting. Social media was flooded with heartfelt messages expressing gratitude to the actors and the show’s writers. The moment became a viral sensation, solidifying its place in Grey’s Anatomy history.
FAQ 8: Was there any behind-the-scenes information about filming those scenes?
The production team reportedly took great care in creating a serene and visually appealing environment for the beach scenes. They aimed to capture the essence of peace and tranquility, reflecting Meredith’s subconscious state. The actors also spent time discussing their characters’ motivations with the writers to ensure the scenes were authentic and meaningful.
FAQ 9: Did their appearance change the overall storyline of Season 17?
Absolutely. Mark and Lexie’s appearance profoundly impacted Meredith’s arc in Season 17. It gave her the strength and motivation to fight her illness and return to her life. Their scenes also provided closure for many fans who were still grieving their loss. Their brief return became a catalyst for Meredith’s recovery.
FAQ 10: Why weren’t other deceased characters included on the beach?
The choice of which deceased characters to include likely came down to several factors, including storyline relevance, actor availability, and the overall emotional impact they wanted to achieve. Mark, Lexie, and Derek all had significant relationships with Meredith, making their presence particularly meaningful. Balancing nostalgia with narrative necessity was likely a key consideration.
FAQ 11: Does this “beach” concept appear in later seasons?
While the beach itself doesn’t reappear as prominently, the idea of characters grappling with loss and finding solace in memories continues to be a recurring theme in subsequent seasons of Grey’s Anatomy. The impact of Meredith’s COVID-induced visions continues to shape her decisions and relationships.
FAQ 12: Knowing what happened to Mark and Lexie, would you still recommend watching Grey’s Anatomy?
Despite the heartbreak, absolutely. Grey’s Anatomy is a show about love, loss, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships. Mark and Lexie’s story, while tragic, is also beautiful and impactful. Their presence, even in death, serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds we form and the importance of cherishing those connections. The show’s emotional depth is what makes it so compelling.
The Legacy of “Little Grey” and “McSteamy”
Mark Sloan and Lexie Grey, even in their absence, remain integral to the fabric of Grey’s Anatomy. Their love story, tragically cut short, continues to resonate with fans. Their appearance in “Breathe” and subsequent beach scenes is a testament to their enduring impact and a powerful reminder of the show’s ability to evoke profound emotional responses. Though they are gone, their memory lives on, not just on the beach, but in the hearts of those who loved them.