Arizona Robbins and Carina DeLuca’s relationship, a vibrant spark in the complex tapestry of Grey’s Anatomy, officially begins in Season 14, Episode 17, “One Day Like This.” This episode marks the culmination of their initial attraction and sets the stage for a brief but memorable romantic connection.
From Attraction to Affection: The Genesis of “Marina”
The chemistry between Arizona Robbins, the optimistic pediatric surgeon, and Carina DeLuca, the passionate OB/GYN, was evident from the moment Carina arrived at Grey Sloan Memorial. However, their journey to becoming a couple wasn’t a straightforward one. Several factors, including personal baggage and professional dynamics, played a role in shaping their relationship.
The Initial Spark: Carina’s Arrival and Arizona’s Curiosity
Carina’s arrival at Grey Sloan as Andrew DeLuca’s sister brought a fresh perspective and energy to the hospital. Her confident and unapologetically sexual nature immediately piqued Arizona’s interest. Arizona, still navigating life after her divorce from Callie Torres, found herself drawn to Carina’s open and expressive personality. This initial attraction formed the foundation for their future relationship.
Season 14, Episode 17: The Defining Moment
While both characters had flirted and danced around a potential relationship, the first real kiss between them occurs in Season 14, Episode 17, “One Day Like This”. The specific sequence involves Carina going to Arizona after dealing with a tough case and expressing her frustration and need for human connection. Their kiss, therefore, is born from vulnerability and mutual understanding.
The “Marina” Relationship: Highs and Lows
While “Marina,” as the pairing is affectionately known by fans, was relatively short-lived, it wasn’t without its own set of defining moments and challenges.
Shared Values and Challenges
One of the strongest aspects of their relationship was their shared passion for medicine and their commitment to providing the best possible care for their patients. However, their differences in personality and approach to life sometimes created friction. Carina’s more impulsive and free-spirited nature contrasted with Arizona’s more cautious and structured approach.
The Impact of Sofia’s Well-being
A recurring theme in Arizona’s relationships is her unwavering devotion to her daughter, Sofia. This commitment played a significant role in her relationship with Carina. Juggling motherhood with a romantic relationship presented its own set of challenges, and ultimately contributed to their amicable parting.
The Amicable Split: Focusing on the Future
Ultimately, Arizona and Carina decide to end their romantic relationship, recognizing that their lives are heading in different directions. This decision, although disappointing for some fans, was portrayed with maturity and respect, highlighting the importance of individual growth and self-discovery. Arizona’s eventual move to New York to be with Callie further solidified this trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Arizona and Carina
Here are some frequently asked questions about Arizona Robbins and Carina DeLuca’s relationship:
FAQ 1: How did Arizona and Carina initially meet?
Arizona and Carina met at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Carina arrived as the sister of Andrew DeLuca, a surgical intern at the time. Arizona, an attending pediatric surgeon, found herself drawn to Carina’s vibrant personality.
FAQ 2: What season and episode did Arizona and Carina first kiss?
As stated earlier, Arizona and Carina’s first kiss occurs in Season 14, Episode 17, “One Day Like This.”
FAQ 3: Why did Arizona and Carina break up?
They broke up due to a combination of factors, including differences in their lifestyles, communication styles, and their differing priorities. Arizona’s primary focus remained her daughter, Sofia, while Carina was exploring her own path and future possibilities. They agreed it was best to part ways amicably.
FAQ 4: Did Arizona and Carina ever consider getting married?
There was never any indication that Arizona and Carina were seriously considering marriage. Their relationship, while passionate, was relatively short-lived and didn’t progress to that stage.
FAQ 5: What were some of the challenges they faced as a couple?
Challenges included balancing Arizona’s role as a single mother, Carina’s desire for freedom and exploration, and their conflicting communication styles. They sometimes struggled to align their individual goals with their relationship.
FAQ 6: How did their relationship affect their professional lives at Grey Sloan?
Their relationship had minimal impact on their professional lives. Both remained dedicated to their respective specialties and continued to provide excellent patient care. However, there were moments of professional camaraderie and support stemming from their personal connection.
FAQ 7: What was the fan reaction to Arizona and Carina’s relationship?
Fan reaction to “Marina” was mixed. Some fans enjoyed the pairing and appreciated the representation of a queer relationship on the show. Others felt that the relationship was rushed or that the characters were not a good match.
FAQ 8: Did Arizona and Carina remain friends after their breakup?
While they didn’t actively maintain a close friendship, they remained on amicable terms and maintained a level of professional respect for one another, particularly in moments when their medical specialties aligned.
FAQ 9: Did Carina’s brother, Andrew DeLuca, approve of her relationship with Arizona?
Andrew’s opinion on their relationship was not heavily emphasized in the show, but he generally seemed accepting and supportive of his sister’s choices. He was more concerned with her overall well-being and happiness.
FAQ 10: What did Arizona do after her breakup with Carina?
After their breakup, Arizona focused on her career and, more importantly, on her daughter, Sofia. She eventually decided to move to New York to be closer to Callie, indicating a desire to rebuild their family.
FAQ 11: Did Arizona and Carina ever cross paths after Arizona moved to New York?
As of Arizona’s departure from the show, there have been no on-screen encounters between her and Carina after her move to New York. Carina’s storyline continues at Grey Sloan Memorial.
FAQ 12: Is there a chance of Arizona and Carina reuniting in the future?
While anything is possible in the world of Grey’s Anatomy, there are no current plans for Arizona to return to the show and rekindle her relationship with Carina. However, with Arizona’s character still holding a dear place in many viewers hearts, and Carina still playing a role on the show, the possibility always exists.
Conclusion: A Memorable Chapter in Grey’s Anatomy History
The relationship between Arizona Robbins and Carina DeLuca, which started officially in Season 14, Episode 17, “One Day Like This,” remains a memorable chapter in the history of Grey’s Anatomy. Although their relationship was relatively short-lived, it provided moments of joy, passion, and self-discovery for both characters. It demonstrated that even amidst the chaos and drama of a hospital, love, even if fleeting, can blossom and leave a lasting impact.