Meredith Grey’s journey on Grey’s Anatomy is defined by love, loss, and resilience. The slow-burn romance with Nathan Riggs culminates in a significant milestone in Season 13, Episode 16, “Who Is He (And What Is He To You)?”, marking the official beginning of their relationship.
The Evolution of Meredith and Riggs: A Rocky Road to Romance
The path to Meredith and Riggs’s relationship was far from smooth. Initially marked by animosity and professional rivalry, their connection deepened slowly over several seasons, fueled by shared trauma and a mutual understanding of loss. The undercurrent of attraction simmered beneath their bickering, eventually blossoming into something undeniable.
The Initial Spark and Underlying Tension
Riggs’s arrival at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital was met with instant resistance from Meredith. The shadow of Derek’s death still loomed large, and the thought of opening herself up to another relationship seemed impossible. Riggs’s confident demeanor and unconventional approach to medicine further fueled their initial antagonism. However, beneath the surface lay a mutual respect and a undeniable spark. Their arguments were often tinged with a playful banter, hinting at a deeper connection waiting to be explored.
The Turning Point: Finding Common Ground in Loss
Both Meredith and Riggs shared the profound experience of losing loved ones. Meredith’s grief over Derek and Riggs’s enduring pain from the disappearance of his fiancée, Megan, formed a powerful bond between them. They found solace in each other’s company, recognizing the unspoken understanding of navigating life after immense loss. This shared experience paved the way for a more vulnerable and intimate connection, softening their initial hostility and allowing them to see each other in a new light.
“Who Is He (And What Is He To You)?” The Official Confirmation
Episode 16 of Season 13, “Who Is He (And What Is He To You)?,” is the pivotal moment where Meredith and Riggs finally acknowledge their feelings and commit to a relationship. The episode sees Meredith confronted with the realization that she is falling for Riggs and, after some internal conflict and hesitation, decides to embrace the possibility of love again. This episode is significant because it marks the official end of the will-they-won’t-they dynamic and the beginning of their journey as a couple.
Decoding Meredith and Riggs: Frequently Asked Questions
To further clarify the nuances of Meredith and Riggs’s relationship, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Why were Meredith and Riggs initially hostile towards each other?
Meredith was still grieving Derek’s death and resistant to the idea of a new relationship. Riggs’s competitive personality and his history with Owen, Meredith’s brother-in-law, also contributed to the initial friction. She saw him as a reminder of the past pain that she was struggling to overcome and didn’t want anything to do with him.
FAQ 2: What role did Owen Hunt play in Meredith and Riggs’s relationship?
Owen’s complicated history with Riggs, stemming from the disappearance of Megan, created significant tension. Owen blamed Riggs for Megan’s presumed death, and this animosity spilled over into his interactions with Meredith, initially discouraging her from pursuing a relationship with Riggs.
FAQ 3: When did Meredith and Riggs first kiss?
Meredith and Riggs share their first kiss in Season 12, Episode 22, “Mama Tried.” This kiss is a significant turning point, solidifying their mutual attraction and setting the stage for a more complex relationship.
FAQ 4: How did Meredith’s sisters, Maggie and Amelia, react to her relationship with Riggs?
Maggie was initially hesitant and protective of Meredith, while Amelia harbored her own anxieties about commitment and romantic relationships. Both sisters eventually came to accept and support Meredith’s relationship with Riggs, recognizing his genuine care for her.
FAQ 5: Was Meredith ready for a relationship after Derek’s death?
Meredith’s readiness for a new relationship was a central theme throughout her interactions with Riggs. She grappled with the guilt of moving on and the fear of experiencing loss again. Her eventual decision to be with Riggs signifies her growth and resilience.
FAQ 6: What were the biggest obstacles Meredith and Riggs faced as a couple?
The biggest obstacles were the lingering shadow of Derek’s death, Owen’s disapproval, and the ultimate reappearance of Megan Hunt, Riggs’s presumed dead fiancée. The latter presented a significant ethical and emotional dilemma for both Meredith and Riggs.
FAQ 7: How did Megan Hunt’s reappearance affect Meredith and Riggs’s relationship?
Megan’s return threw their relationship into turmoil. Riggs was naturally drawn to Megan, the woman he had believed was dead for years. This forced Meredith to confront her own feelings and ultimately make a selfless decision to let Riggs reunite with Megan.
FAQ 8: Did Meredith and Riggs ever get married?
No, Meredith and Riggs did not get married. Megan’s reappearance led to Riggs choosing to rebuild his life with her, ending his relationship with Meredith.
FAQ 9: Where did Riggs and Megan end up after leaving Grey Sloan?
Riggs and Megan moved to Los Angeles to raise Megan’s adopted son, Farouk, together as a family.
FAQ 10: Was Meredith heartbroken when Riggs left with Megan?
While undoubtedly saddened by the end of their relationship, Meredith ultimately understood Riggs’s decision. She recognized the profound connection he shared with Megan and supported his choice to prioritize his past. Her reaction showcased her growth and maturity, indicating she was able to handle the situation with grace.
FAQ 11: Did Meredith ever regret letting Riggs go?
While there may have been moments of reflection and “what ifs,” Meredith never explicitly expressed regret about letting Riggs go. Her storyline following his departure focused on her continued growth and independence. She acknowledged that it wasn’t the right relationship for her at that time in her life, which demonstrates that she understood that this path was ultimately the best one.
FAQ 12: How did the Riggs storyline impact Meredith’s overall character development?
The Riggs storyline was crucial in showcasing Meredith’s healing process after Derek’s death. It demonstrated her ability to open herself up to love again, navigate complex emotions, and make difficult decisions for the greater good. It further solidified her resilience and her capacity for empathy, solidifying her position as a strong and independent protagonist.