April and Matthew, the beloved characters from “Grey’s Anatomy,” finally tied the knot after a tumultuous journey. Their wedding episode, a fan-favorite moment, occurs in Season 10, Episode 12, titled “Get Up, Stand Up.”
The Road to “I Do”: A Dramatic Unveiling
Their relationship was a whirlwind of religious conviction, unexpected connections, and dramatic reversals, making their journey to the altar anything but straightforward. Initially, April Kepner was seen as the “good girl,” adhering to traditional values. Matthew Taylor, a paramedic, represented a similar sense of faith and grounding. Their relationship was characterized by a slow burn, built on shared beliefs and genuine affection.
However, the arrival of Jackson Avery threw a wrench in their plans. Jackson’s declaration of love for April at her first wedding with Matthew, resulting in her eloping with him, sparked years of “Japril” drama. Their relationship was a rollercoaster filled with love, loss, and ultimately, divorce.
While Japril was a fan-favorite pairing, the show eventually circled back to April and Matthew, acknowledging the enduring connection that had always existed between them. The unexpected twist that brought them back together wasn’t without its drama and emotional complexity.
“Get Up, Stand Up”: A Second Chance at Happiness
The “Get Up, Stand Up” episode is significant because it showcases the culmination of years of character development and relationship arcs. The episode masterfully intertwines several storylines, but April and Matthew’s second wedding is undeniably the central focus. It’s not just a wedding; it’s a testament to forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring power of love.
The episode doesn’t portray a fairytale ending devoid of challenges. Instead, it paints a realistic picture of two people who have grown and learned from their past mistakes, choosing to commit to each other with a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship. The wedding itself is filled with emotional moments, heartfelt vows, and a palpable sense of joy and relief. It provides a satisfying conclusion to their individual journeys and a hopeful beginning to their life together.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into April and Matthew’s Wedding
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify details surrounding April and Matthew’s second wedding:
H3 What events led up to April and Matthew’s second wedding?
Following her divorce from Jackson, April dedicates her life to helping the homeless and leaves her job at Grey Sloan Memorial. We then discover that she is pregnant and that Matthew’s wife has passed away, leaving him a single father. They connect through their shared loss and find solace in each other’s company. This rekindled connection eventually leads to a romantic relationship and their decision to get married.
H3 Did Jackson attend April and Matthew’s second wedding?
Yes, Jackson attends April and Matthew’s wedding. He is happy for April and respects her decision. He has also moved on to a new relationship with Maggie Pierce. Seeing April happy provided him with peace of mind, signifying closure for their relationship.
H3 What was the reaction of other characters at Grey Sloan to the wedding?
Most of April’s friends and colleagues from Grey Sloan are supportive and attend the wedding. There’s a general sense of happiness for April, who has endured significant hardships. Meredith Grey, in particular, is visibly emotional, demonstrating her close bond with April.
H3 Where did April and Matthew get married?
April and Matthew’s wedding takes place outdoors, in a picturesque and scenic location that complements the joyful occasion. It is a less extravagant setting than her first planned wedding, reflecting the maturity and simplicity of their renewed relationship.
H3 Was there any drama during the wedding episode itself?
While the focus is on celebration, the episode doesn’t shy away from showcasing the realities of life. There are underlying emotional tensions and personal struggles that some characters are dealing with, adding depth to the narrative. However, these moments don’t overshadow the joy of the wedding itself.
H3 Did April return to working at Grey Sloan after getting married?
No, April did not return to Grey Sloan Memorial after the wedding. She continues her work in helping the homeless, choosing a path that aligns with her newfound perspective on life and her desire to make a meaningful impact on the community.
H3 Why did the writers bring April and Matthew back together?
The writers have stated that they wanted to explore the idea of second chances and the possibility of finding happiness in unexpected places. They also wanted to showcase a relationship that was built on a foundation of faith and shared values, offering a different perspective on love and commitment. The return to Matthew was seen as a way to conclude April’s character arc in a satisfying and hopeful manner.
H3 How did fans react to April and Matthew getting back together?
Fan reactions were mixed. Some fans were thrilled to see April find happiness after enduring so much pain, while others were disappointed that she didn’t end up with Jackson. However, many appreciated the message of forgiveness and the portrayal of a mature and loving relationship.
H3 What was Sarah Drew’s (April Kepner) opinion on April and Matthew’s reunion?
Sarah Drew expressed her satisfaction with April’s ending. She felt that it was a beautiful and fitting conclusion to her character’s journey, emphasizing the importance of faith, second chances, and finding love in unexpected places. She appreciated the writers’ commitment to portraying a different kind of love story.
H3 Did April and Matthew have children after getting married the second time?
While the series doesn’t explicitly show them having more children together, it is implied that they continue to build a life as a family, raising Harriet (April’s daughter with Jackson) and Matthew’s son. The focus is on their commitment to each other and their blended family.
H3 What is the significance of the episode title, “Get Up, Stand Up”?
The title likely refers to the themes of resilience and standing up for what you believe in. April had to “get up” after her divorce and rebuild her life. Both April and Matthew had to “stand up” for their love and commit to each other despite their past experiences.
H3 What lasting impact did April and Matthew’s relationship have on the show?
April and Matthew’s relationship, particularly their second chance at marriage, provided a powerful message about forgiveness, growth, and the enduring nature of love. It offered a different perspective on romantic relationships within the show, showcasing a more traditional and faith-based connection. It also demonstrated that happiness can be found in unexpected places, even after experiencing significant loss and heartbreak. Their story left a lasting impression on viewers, highlighting the complexities and enduring power of human relationships.