**Nathan Riggs' arrival at Grey Sloan Memorial caused a ruckus, but when he eventually left Grey's Anatomy, he left a mark on some characters and the show's narrative. His journey was a complex tapestry of professional brilliance, personal tragedy, and burgeoning romance, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Seattle's busiest fictional hospital.** For fans who followed his arc from his debut in Season 12, the question of **what happened to Riggs in Grey's Anatomy** remains a significant point of discussion, especially given the unexpected turn his story took. Grey’s Anatomy’s longevity guaranteed new characters would always be introduced and old characters would exit the series, and Nathan Riggs’ story intertwined with many of Grey’s Anatomy’s central characters since his appearance in Season 12. His time on the show, though relatively brief compared to some mainstays, was packed with emotional weight, particularly concerning his past with Owen Hunt and his potential future with Meredith Grey. *** ## Table of Contents * [Who is Nathan Riggs? A Brief Introduction](#who-is-nathan-riggs-a-brief-introduction) * [Martin Henderson: The Man Behind Nathan Riggs](#martin-henderson-the-man-behind-nathan-riggs) * [Martin Henderson: Personal Data and Biodata](#martin-henderson-personal-data-and-biodata) * [The Tumultuous Arrival at Grey Sloan](#the-tumultuous-arrival-at-grey-sloan) * [The Deep-Seated Feud with Owen Hunt](#the-deep-seated-feud-with-owen-hunt) * [Megan Hunt: The Catalyst of Conflict](#megan-hunt-the-catalyst-of-conflict) * [A Budding Romance with Meredith Grey](#a-budding-romance-with-meredith-grey) * [Megan Hunt's Miraculous Return](#megan-hunts-miraculous-return) * [What Happened to Riggs in Grey's Anatomy? His Emotional Departure](#what-happened-to-riggs-in-greys-anatomy-his-emotional-departure) * [Life After Grey Sloan: Updates on Nathan and Megan](#life-after-grey-sloan-updates-on-nathan-and-megan) * [The Lingering Questions and Possibility of Return](#the-lingering-questions-and-possibility-of-return) * [Conclusion: Riggs' Lasting Mark on Grey's Anatomy](#conclusion-riggs-lasting-mark-on-greys-anatomy) *** ## Who is Nathan Riggs? A Brief Introduction Nathan Riggs, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a fictional character from the medical drama television series Grey's Anatomy, which airs on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) in the United States. The character was created by series producer Shonda Rhimes and is portrayed by actor Martin Henderson. Nathan Riggs was a cardiothoracic surgeon at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. He was introduced in Season 12 of the show as a skilled cardiovascular surgeon joining the hospital, originally getting to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital because of April, who worked with him in Jordan. Riggs was a doctor at Grey Sloan from S12 to S15, though his last main appearance was in Season 14. During the character's time on the show, he is seen exploring his personal and professional relationships, particularly his complex past with Owen Hunt and his evolving romance with Meredith Grey. ## Martin Henderson: The Man Behind Nathan Riggs Martin Henderson, the New Zealand actor who brought Nathan Riggs to life, played a pivotal role in shaping the character's appeal and depth. His portrayal allowed viewers to connect with Riggs' vulnerability, charm, and internal struggles. Before joining Grey's Anatomy, Henderson had a notable career in film and television, including roles in "The Ring" and "Smokin' Aces." His casting as a potential love interest for Meredith Grey after the tragic death of Derek Shepherd was met with significant fan anticipation and scrutiny, a testament to the character's importance in the show's post-McDreamy era. ### Martin Henderson: Personal Data and Biodata | Category | Detail | | :-------------- | :---------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Full Name | Martin Henderson | | Born | October 8, 1975 | | Birthplace | Auckland, New Zealand | | Nationality | New Zealander | | Occupation | Actor | | Notable Roles | Dr. Nathan Riggs (Grey's Anatomy), Jack Sheridan (Virgin River), Noah Clay (The Ring) | | Years Active | 1992–present | ## The Tumultuous Arrival at Grey Sloan Nathan Riggs' arrival at Grey Sloan Memorial caused a ruckus, setting the stage for immediate drama. His introduction in Season 12 immediately put him at odds with the infamous Owen Hunt. This immediate friction was not just a typical workplace rivalry; it hinted at a deeper, more personal history that would slowly unravel throughout the season. The tension between Riggs and Owen was palpable, creating an intriguing mystery for viewers and a challenging dynamic within the hospital's surgical team. Initially, Riggs' presence was a source of discomfort for many, particularly Owen, who viewed him with intense hostility. This animosity stemmed from a shared past, specifically their time serving in the U.S. Army as trauma surgeons alongside Owen's sister, Megan Hunt, and Teddy Altman. The narrative masterfully teased out snippets of this history, leaving fans to wonder about the true nature of their falling out and the role Riggs played in Owen's life. ## The Deep-Seated Feud with Owen Hunt The animosity between Nathan Riggs and Owen Hunt was one of the central conflicts during Riggs' early tenure at Grey Sloan. We’ve known since Owen appeared on Grey’s Anatomy that he lost his sister, Megan, somehow, and when Nathan Riggs showed up, we finally knew the tragic story that led to Owen and Riggs' falling out. Their feud stemmed from a mission in Afghanistan where Megan Hunt, Owen's younger sister, went missing. Megan was formerly engaged to Nathan Riggs, adding another layer of complexity to their already strained relationship. Owen blamed Riggs for Megan's disappearance, believing Riggs had abandoned her or was somehow responsible for her presumed death. This deep-seated resentment fueled countless heated exchanges and confrontations between the two surgeons. For seasons, the mystery surrounding Megan's fate and the exact circumstances of her disappearance loomed large over both characters, defining their interactions and making it difficult for either to move past their shared trauma. Nathan Riggs (Martin Henderson) explains to Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) his relationship with Owen's sister, slowly revealing the painful details that led to the rift. This ongoing tension was a significant plot driver, keeping viewers invested in the backstory and hoping for eventual reconciliation. ### Megan Hunt: The Catalyst of Conflict Megan Hunt is Owen Hunt's younger sister who was missing for ten years. She served in the U.S. Army as a trauma surgeon at the same time as her brother, Teddy Altman, and Nathan Riggs. She was formerly engaged to Nathan and she is raising her son, Farouk Shami Hunt. Megan is three years younger than her brother Owen and grew up in Seattle with her family. The siblings attended medical school together, highlighting their close bond before tragedy struck. Her disappearance was the central trauma that defined both Owen and Riggs' lives for a decade, leading to Owen's deep-seated anger and Riggs' quiet guilt. Her memory was a constant presence, shaping their professional and personal choices until her miraculous return. ## A Budding Romance with Meredith Grey Amidst the professional challenges and personal baggage, Nathan Riggs found an unexpected connection with Meredith Grey. Meredith and Riggs' relationship in 'Grey’s Anatomy' began subtly, almost tentatively, as both characters were still reeling from past heartbreaks. Riggs first made his debut at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital halfway through Season 12 of the series and was at odds with the infamous Owen Hunt, but his interactions with Meredith slowly shifted from professional courtesy to something more profound. After Derek Shepherd's tragic death, Meredith had closed herself off to love, focusing on her children and career. Riggs, with his understanding gaze and similar experiences with loss, gradually chipped away at her defenses. Their connection was organic, built on shared grief, mutual respect, and a quiet understanding that transcended the hospital drama. Their "burgeoning love story" offered Meredith a path forward, a chance at happiness she thought was lost forever. Many fans rooted for them, seeing Riggs as a worthy successor to Derek, capable of bringing joy back into Meredith's life. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their relationship provided a much-needed emotional anchor for Meredith as she navigated her new reality. ## Megan Hunt's Miraculous Return The trajectory of Nathan Riggs' story, and indeed Meredith's, took an unforeseen turn with the miraculous return of Megan Hunt. After ten years of being presumed dead, Megan was found alive and brought to Grey Sloan Memorial for urgent medical care. This seismic event immediately changed everything for Owen, Riggs, and Meredith. Grey’s Anatomy updated fans on how former main character Nathan Riggs and Megan Hunt’s relationship is going since moving away, but her return was the true catalyst. Her survival was a shock, bringing immense joy to Owen but also creating a complex dilemma for Riggs. His former fiancée, the woman he had mourned for a decade, was back. This put him in an incredibly difficult position, torn between his past love and his burgeoning future with Meredith. Meredith, ever selfless, recognized the profound significance of Megan's return for Riggs. She understood that Riggs had to be with Megan, to help her heal and to rekindle the life they had lost. This selfless act highlighted Meredith's growth and maturity, even as it meant sacrificing her own happiness. The emotional weight of Megan's return was immense, setting the stage for Riggs' eventual departure. ## What Happened to Riggs in Grey's Anatomy? His Emotional Departure So, **what happened to Riggs in Grey's Anatomy** that led to his exit? Nathan Riggs' last episode was rather gentle, especially by Grey's Anatomy standards, which are notorious for dramatic and often tragic character exits. He wasn’t bombed, hit by a bus, or sent onto a crashing plane, but rather starting a new life. His departure was driven by the return of Megan Hunt. With Megan requiring extensive medical care and emotional support, Riggs made the profound decision to dedicate himself to her recovery and their rekindled relationship. His final scenes in Season 14 saw him moving to Malibu, California, with Megan and her son, Farouk. This was a bittersweet moment for fans, as it meant the end of the promising romance between Riggs and Meredith. However, it also provided a sense of closure and a happy ending for Riggs, a rarity in the Grey's Anatomy universe. He chose love and family, opting for a life away from the high-stakes drama of Grey Sloan, a choice that resonated with the themes of healing and second chances that permeate the show. His exit, while quiet, was deeply impactful, signifying a new chapter for several main characters. ## Life After Grey Sloan: Updates on Nathan and Megan Even after Nathan Riggs left Grey's Anatomy, the show occasionally provided updates on his life with Megan Hunt, keeping fans in the loop about their fate. "The Whole Package" featured Megan Hunt’s (Abigail Spencer) return to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital to help with a war veteran patient, also updating viewers on how her and Nathan’s (Martin Henderson) lives have been going. These updates, though brief, offered glimpses into their life in California. However, the picture wasn't always rosy. Megan’s return in Grey’s Anatomy Season 18’s premiere was motivated by Teddy and Owen finally tying the knot. While operating on the priest who was supposed to marry Teddy and Owen, Megan shared the news that her and Nathan’s relationship was a “pandemic casualty,” making them realize they didn’t have much in common besides having gone through their highest highs and lowest lows together. This revelation was a surprising twist for fans who had believed in their "happily ever after." It showed that even the most romanticized reunions can face real-world challenges, and that shared trauma isn't always enough to sustain a relationship long-term. This update confirmed that while Riggs found happiness and a new beginning with Megan, their journey together was not without its complexities and eventual dissolution. ## The Lingering Questions and Possibility of Return Nathan Riggs’ story in Grey’s Anatomy left fans with more questions than answers, especially after the Season 18 update on his relationship with Megan. While his departure felt complete at the time, the subsequent news of his split from Megan has opened up new possibilities. Grey's Anatomy can right one of their wrongs by bringing back a forgotten doctor and giving them the closure they deserve 10 years later. This sentiment reflects a desire among fans to see Riggs again, perhaps to explore his growth since leaving and to resolve any lingering "unfinished business." Season 21 offers a unique opportunity to bring him back, explore his growth, and resolve his unfinished business. The show has a history of bringing back beloved characters, even for guest appearances, and Riggs' unresolved romantic history with Meredith, coupled with his now-single status, could provide compelling new storylines. Whether it's a brief cameo or a more substantial arc, a return for Nathan Riggs would undoubtedly generate significant excitement and provide a sense of full circle for a character who left an indelible mark on the series. It would also allow the show to address the lingering question of what truly happened to Riggs after his initial departure and how his life has evolved. ## Conclusion: Riggs' Lasting Mark on Grey's Anatomy Nathan Riggs' journey on Grey's Anatomy was a rollercoaster of emotions, from his contentious arrival to his quiet, yet impactful, departure. His character served as a vital bridge in Meredith Grey's healing process after Derek's death, offering her a chance at new love and happiness. His complex past with Owen Hunt and the miraculous return of Megan Hunt provided some of the most compelling storylines during his tenure. The question of **what happened to Riggs in Grey's Anatomy** is answered by his choice to pursue a life with Megan, a decision that, while eventually leading to another separation, symbolized a profound commitment to his past and a hope for a future outside the hospital walls. While his time at Grey Sloan was relatively short, Nathan Riggs' feud with Owen and romance with Meredith made for interesting viewing on Grey's Anatomy, ensuring he left a memorable imprint on the show and its characters. His story is a testament to Grey's Anatomy's ability to introduce characters who deeply impact the narrative, even if their stay is temporary. As the series continues to evolve, the possibility of his return, even for a brief moment, remains a tantalizing thought for fans who believe his story isn't quite finished. What are your thoughts on Nathan Riggs' departure? Did you wish he had stayed at Grey Sloan, or do you think his exit was fitting for his character arc? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don't forget to explore more of our Grey's Anatomy character analyses and episode recaps!
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