The spark between Jackson Avery and Lexie Grey fully ignites in Grey’s Anatomy Season 7, Episode 18, “Song Beneath the Song.” While there had been underlying tension and attraction previously, this musical episode features the pivotal moment where they give in to their feelings and begin their short-lived, but memorable, romantic relationship.
The Evolution of “Jexie”: A Timeline
The relationship between Jackson Avery and Lexie Grey, affectionately nicknamed “Jexie” by fans, was a whirlwind of unspoken feelings, competitive dynamics, and ultimately, heartfelt connection. While “Song Beneath the Song” marks the official start of their romantic relationship, their journey to that point was a gradual build-up of shared experiences and undeniable chemistry. To fully understand their connection, it’s important to look back at the episodes leading up to this pivotal moment.
Before the Romance: Seeds of Attraction
Prior to their romantic entanglement, Jackson and Lexie were colleagues navigating the competitive world of surgical residency at Seattle Grace Mercy West Hospital. They were both driven, intelligent, and possessed a strong desire to excel in their careers. This shared ambition often placed them in direct competition, leading to moments of both friction and mutual respect. The underlying attraction was palpable, though neither explicitly acknowledged it.
“Song Beneath the Song”: The Point of No Return
“Song Beneath the Song” is unique within Grey’s Anatomy because of its musical format, reflecting Callie Torres’ internal state as she faces a life-threatening accident. Amidst the singing and emotional turmoil, Jackson and Lexie’s pent-up feelings finally surface. The heightened emotional atmosphere, coupled with their shared concern for Callie, creates the perfect catalyst for them to act on their attraction. This episode is universally regarded as the beginning of “Jexie.”
FAQ: Decoding the Dynamics of Jexie
To further explore the complexities and nuances of Jackson and Lexie’s relationship, consider these frequently asked questions:
1. What initially drew Jackson to Lexie?
Jackson was initially drawn to Lexie’s intelligence, dedication, and quirky personality. He admired her encyclopedic knowledge of medical facts and her unwavering commitment to her patients. He also seemed to appreciate her ability to challenge him and keep him on his toes.
2. What initially drew Lexie to Jackson?
Lexie was attracted to Jackson’s confidence, charisma, and physical attractiveness. He represented a different kind of connection for her, one that wasn’t necessarily defined by intellectual pursuit but rather by a more visceral and immediate attraction. She also appreciated his kindness and his willingness to stand up for what he believed in.
3. How long did Jackson and Lexie date?
Jackson and Lexie’s relationship was relatively short-lived, lasting for approximately one season, from Season 7 to Season 8.
4. What were the biggest challenges in their relationship?
One of the biggest challenges was Lexie’s lingering feelings for Mark Sloan (McSteamy). This created a constant tension and insecurity within their relationship, as Jackson was always aware of Lexie’s past and the unresolved feelings she still harbored for Mark. Their personalities also clashed at times; Jackson could be more reserved, while Lexie was more openly emotional.
5. Why did Jackson and Lexie break up?
The relationship ultimately ended because of Lexie’s inability to fully move on from Mark. Despite trying to commit to Jackson, her feelings for Mark remained strong, creating an insurmountable obstacle in their relationship.
6. Was their breakup amicable?
Their breakup was mostly amicable, but still painful. They recognized that their relationship wasn’t working and that Lexie’s feelings for Mark were too significant to ignore. While there was sadness and disappointment, they parted with a degree of mutual respect.
7. Did Jackson ever truly get over Lexie?
It’s debatable whether Jackson ever fully got over Lexie. While he went on to have other significant relationships, including his marriage to April Kepner, Lexie’s death undoubtedly had a profound impact on him. The experience shaped his perspective on life and love.
8. How did Lexie’s death affect Jackson?
Lexie’s death in the plane crash in Season 8 had a devastating effect on Jackson. He witnessed her tragic demise firsthand, along with Mark Sloan, and the trauma of that experience left a lasting mark on him. He carried the grief and the memory of Lexie throughout his subsequent relationships and career decisions.
9. Did Lexie and Jackson have good chemistry as a couple?
Despite the challenges, many fans believe that Jackson and Lexie had undeniable chemistry. Their contrasting personalities created a dynamic that was both intriguing and entertaining. Their moments of genuine connection were often heartfelt and believable.
10. How does their relationship compare to Lexie and Mark’s relationship?
Lexie’s relationship with Jackson was different from her relationship with Mark in several key aspects. Her relationship with Mark was characterized by intense passion, drama, and a significant age difference. Her relationship with Jackson was more grounded, characterized by mutual respect, intellectual connection, and a more even playing field.
11. Are Jackson and Lexie considered a popular couple within the Grey’s Anatomy fandom?
While “Jexie” has its supporters, it is generally considered less popular than other Grey’s Anatomy couples, such as “MerDer” (Meredith and Derek) or “Calzona” (Callie and Arizona). This is largely due to the brevity of their relationship and the fact that Lexie’s true love was often perceived to be Mark Sloan.
12. What impact did the “Jexie” relationship have on Jackson’s overall character arc?
The “Jexie” relationship, though short-lived, played a significant role in Jackson’s character development. It allowed him to explore his capacity for vulnerability and emotional connection. It also contributed to his growth as a surgeon and as a human being, preparing him for the challenges and responsibilities he would face later in his life, particularly in his relationship with April and his work with the Catherine Fox Foundation. Experiencing such profound loss at a young age undoubtedly shaped his perspective and fueled his desire to make a meaningful impact on the world.