Grey's Anatomy: The most unexpected character returns ranked

Grey's Anatomy, has mastered the art of sudden goodbyes for nearly 20 years: from plane crashes, bus accidents, to sudden, heartbreaking illness. Yet, just when we wrap a Band-Aid around the vacant space left by some of our favorite characters, a familiar face reappears.

These resurrections can surface as anything. From spiritual visits to plot-twisting business opportunities, the popular ABC medical drama shut some doors only to reopen them again for maximum dramatic impact and a complete dose of entertainment.

Among all the shocking reappearances, which one really stood out? We’re ranking the most unexpected comebacks in Grey's Anatomy history, focusing on the sheer shock factor and emotional magnitude of their reappearance.

---

Grey’s Anatomy: The most unexpected character returns ranked

Season 17 of Grey’s Anatomy lands some unexpected shocks. We find Meredith in a coma where she experienced "pure white beach", a space where she hoped to find those lost.

1. Derek Shepherd (Season 17, Episode 2, "The Center Won't Hold")

Dr. Derek Shepherd was an integral part of the show until the death of his character in 2015. The renowned neurosurgeon, often called "McDreamy,". His reappearance in Season 17 was a massive surprise.

In this episode, Comrac finds an unconscious Meredith collapsed in the hospital parking lot. In the final scene, she heard her name and turned to see Derek.

This character's return was both exciting and emotional.

2. George O'Malley (Season 17, Episode 4, "You'll Never Walk Alone")

Another memorable beach reunion takes place in the same season in episode 4, featuring an original intern in Grey's Anatomy, George O'Malley.

Known for his "perfect smile," his re-appearance melted many hearts. When George meets Meredith on the beach, they talk about grief and the everlasting impact he had on his peers at the hospital.

---

3. Lexie Grey (Season 15, Episode 6, "Flowers Grow Out of My Grave") Characters in Grey’s Anatomy often bid goodbyes that feel too soon. Lexie succumbs to a plane crash leaving fans devastated.

However, she made a unique appearance as a ghost during the hospital’s observance of the Day of the Dead. The sight of Lexie, now free of her suffering, brought Meredith comfort.

4. Preston Burke (Season 10, Episode 22, "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together")

The return of Dr. Preston Burke in Grey’s Anatomy was one of the most unexpected, as he was the first series original character to exit the show. After a solid seven years he comes back, finding Cristina Yang at a conference in Switzerland.

Some fans were relieved to see the toxic ex out of the picture, but Burke marked a poignant full-circle moment for Cristina. Preston’s return propels the next major life adventure for her, leading her to take a different path than his past.

5. Teddy Altman (Season 14, Episode 1, "Break Down the House")

In season 8, Seattle Grace saw the exit of Teddy Altman, after she lost her partner, Henry Burton.

However, her departure was not set in stone. In Season 14’s "Break Down the House," from Grey's Anatomy, when Owen Hunt's presumed-dead sister, Megan Hun,t returns, Teddy also returns quickly to support Owen.

This dramatic return demonstrated the enduring strength of her bonds at the facility and paved the way for her relationship with Hunt.

---

6. Katie Bryce: From First Patient to Legal Witness (Season 16, Episode 8, "My Shot")

Katie Bryce returns in Season 16, Episode 8 of Grey’s Anatomy in an episode titled "My Shot," creating a truly wholesome moment for another important character, Meredith Grey.

Grey’s Anatomy fans recognize Katie as one of the very first patients Meredith treated in the series. Katie was diagnosed with a life-threatening aneurysm years earlier by none other than Meredith.

During Meredith's trial for insurance fraud, Katie stood by her in court, upholding the doctor’s reputation in court. The cameo was brief but it showcased how Katie truly respected Meredith for saving her life.

---

Grey's Anatomy's character wraps and unexpected reappearances are essential narrative tools that reinforce the show’s central theme: the unbreakable bond of family and friendship.

By refusing to let major characters fade into oblivion, Grey's Anatomy ensures that every past relationship and dramatic event continues to flare up excitement and capture the emotional pulse of the show.

Also read: Grey's Anatomy Season 22 cast and character guide: Meet the new and returning actors in the ABC series