The ever-churning rumour mill of television crossovers and character returns is a staple of fan engagement, and the Grey’s Anatomy universe is no exception. With the conclusion of its firefighter sibling show, Station 19, the question of how its characters might weave back into the halls of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital has become a fervent topic of discussion. Season 20 of Grey’s Anatomy may have just subtly, or perhaps not-so-subtly, increased the likelihood of one particular Station 19 character making a reappearance: Dr. Carina DeLuca.
The Potential for a Carina DeLuca Return
The strongest argument for Carina’s return hinges on her existing ties to Grey’s Anatomy. Unlike other Station 19 characters whose connections were primarily based on romantic relationships or external emergencies, Carina boasts a deeply rooted familial connection: her brother, Andrew DeLuca, was a beloved surgeon at Grey Sloan before his tragic death. His memory, and the impact he had on characters like Meredith Grey, remains a potent force in the show.
Season 20 has made several choices that hint at a connection to Carina’s narrative including:
- Mentioning deceased characters: This season has seen more frequent nods to deceased characters, including a poignant mention of Andrew DeLuca. This suggests a willingness to revisit past storylines and the emotional baggage they carry.
- Focusing on OB/GYN: With Dr. Addison Montgomery’s involvement in season 19 and 20, and the continuous presence of OB/GYN cases, the path is cleared for a seamless introduction of a new practitioner, especially one already familiar to audiences.
- The general need for new talent: Grey Sloan Memorial is always evolving. A recurring character like Carina could fill the gap left by others.
Beyond these narrative cues, the logistical aspects also favour Carina’s return. Actress Stefania Spampinato, who plays Carina, is demonstrably available, allowing scheduling to be less complicated. The most significant hurdle for other Station 19 crossovers—the lack of organic connection to the medical drama—is largely absent in Carina’s case.
Of course, any return would need to be organic and serve the overall story. A simple cameo for fan service might fall flat. However, a compelling storyline that explores Carina’s grief, her professional development, and possibly even a new romantic interest at Grey Sloan could be a welcome addition to the show. Season 20 of Grey’s Anatomy has laid the groundwork for a potential return, making it a more plausible and exciting prospect than ever before.
