Chris Van Dusen on "My Favorite Mistake"

Original airdate: 3-22-07

By now, you all know that this blog is a pretty scary, intimidating, daunting place for us writers.  Unless your name is Shonda Rhimes.  If your name is Shonda Rhimes, you’re not scared of the fans who are asking for your head because of that whole George and Izzie sleeping together thing.  You’re not intimidated by the millions of people wanting – no, demanding – that Mer-Der sex.  You’re not daunted by the task of getting Cristina Yang to walk down an aisle wearing a big, white, frilly wedding dress…

Of course not.

But, if your name is Shonda Rhimes, you’re able to casually saunter by a guy who’s staring at a blank computer screen, attempting to write his very first writer’s blog for his very first episode of television – his brow furrowed, eyes glassy – and casually whisper the words:  “Just blame me.”

Let me tell you, the day after we see Izzie and George have sex is a pretty frightening time to come on here and try to explain why Izzie and George woke up in that bed next to each other.  Some of you are really, really angry about that.  And, Shonda is insisting that you – yes, all of you – with your scrunched up noses and your crossed arms and your loud, infuriated sighs – you all should blame her for Izzie and George.

“Izzie and George sleep together,” our fearless leader said.  “IZZIE AND GEORGE SLEEP TOGETHER!”

It was pretty amazing.  It’s still pretty amazing.  And, trust us, we’re taking Izzie and George to some pretty amazing places.  Because, just like the theme of this episode, we have a plan.

We know you’re shocked.  We hear you.  Television watchers without pity:  We get it.  But, here’s the thing.  You know who’s even more shocked than you?  Izzie and George.

They didn’t see this coming.  They didn’t mean for this to happen.  I mean, they’re FRIENDS.  They’re BEST friends.  They spend most of their waking hours together.  They have many things in common.  They confide in each other.  They look out for each other.  They stick up for each other.  They worry about each other.  They care very deeply about each other.

Wait a minute.

Izzie and George are already in a freakin’ relationship!  They’ve been in one for a really long time.

Okay, so, up until now, it was a sexless relationship.  But, Izzie’s been mourning Denny all season long.  George has been fighting left and right with the woman he married in the wake of his father’s death.  And, of course, Izzie and George drank a lot of alcohol.  So, the sex happened.

The really, really good sex happened…

The sex that makes Izzie think she has deeper feelings for George?  It happened.

The sex that officially puts Izzie in the Dirty Mistresses Club and classifies George as an adulterer?  IT HAPPENED!

Both Izzie and George are wrong for the sex.  It was a mistake.  It wasn’t part of the plan.  George is married.  To Callie – who, at the moment, I feel so incredibly sad for.  There she is – thinking that she married the perfect husband.  The only man who has ever stood up to her father.  She’s deeply in love with George.  That scene, after lunch, when Mr. Torres comes to the hospital and tells George to protect Callie with his entire being – Wasn’t that scene just heartbreaking?  The look on Callie’s face, so proud of her husband…

George – We torture the hell out of him in this episode.  He kinda deserves it, don’t you think?  You know, for the whole adultery thing.  So, he’s incredibly hung over.  He remembers the sex during lunch with none other than his wife and his father-in law.  And, in the last scene of the episode, he’s horrified, left speechless, just staring at the ceiling.  So, so lost.  He’s not getting any sleep tonight.

And, neither is Izzie.  One of my favorite scenes of this episode is Izzie and George in the linen closet, right after George has remembered the previous night’s transgression.  There are no spoken words, yet it’s almost like you hear what Izzie and George are saying.  It’s painful.  Heart wrenching.  I don’t know about you, but, in that moment – I wanted Izzie and George together.  Without the complications.  Without the mistakes.  Without having to totally destroy Callie.  The sex, it was wrong.  But that last look between Izzie and George in the linen closet?  It was so, so right.

Because…  Izzie and George?  They’ve got some intense feelings for each other, those two.  It’s obvious.  It’s amazing.  There they are, in that linen closet, NOT DRUNK AT ALL, and it’s apparent that the sex – the really, really good sex – it could happen again – right then and right there.  So George rushes out, leaving Izzie all alone.  Neither has a clue what to do.

George.  Is.  Married.  We see George banging the linen closet shelves, Izzie looking so confused, both of them pacing around like caged animals.  Izzie and George are so incredibly flawed.  But that’s what makes them interesting.  That’s what makes them human.  That’s why, even though they did a terrible thing, we still love them.  And we want to see them get out of this okay.  I’m talking about all parties involved:  Izzie, George, and Callie.

Okay, some of you will remain angry about this Izzie-George thing.  Go ahead.  Be that way.  But, HOPEFULLY you found some joy in the MER-DER SEX you saw at the end of tonight’s episode…

It’s been a long time for those two.  Cut Mer-Der some slack.  I mean, Meredith was dead for an afternoon and Derek has been busy running around the halls of Seattle Grace making sure there are no large bodies of water left for his woman to fall into.  Which, according to Meredith, is a big problem.

Meredith doesn’t want anyone looking out for her right now.  Her mom died.  She’s fine.  She’s ready to move on.  But, everyone around her – namely, Derek – won’t let her.  He’s going around trying to protect her, but it’s coming off as extremely manipulative.  Meredith wants to fight her own battles.  She’s wants to be a surgical machine.  She has a new plan.  So, it really pissed her off when Derek talked to Mark about the Jane Doe surgery.  The troubled look on Derek’s face when Meredith tells him to shut the door on his way out – he just wants what’s best for his girlfriend.  Maybe what’s best for his girlfriend, though, is a little space.

We see how much this affects Derek when he’s unable to give his board interview the focus and attention it deserves.  Burke is doing Power Point.  Addison is rehearsing her introduction.  Mark…  Well, Mark is being Mark.  And, to everyone’s dismay – particularly Bailey’s – Mark ends up winning the race for Chief (for today, at least).  And, what’s Derek doing?  Not concentrating on his board interview.  Instead, he’s worried about Meredith.  Hovering.  Pacing.  Which is starting to affect his job.  Which can’t be good.  Now, I’m worried.

But, in the end, Meredith and Derek put their differences aside for a moment and finally go back to being the couple we all want to see.  It looked like all of that fighting led to a pretty passionate night…

Let’s not forget about Burke and Cristina.  Tonight, we got a glimpse of Cristina’s first ever musings on her upcoming wedding.  Hey, at least it’s good to know that the wedding is still on.  Because when Colin Marlowe showed up in the last episode, things got pretty intense in Burktina-land.

Colin’s arrival threw a serious wrench in Cristina’s plans.  And, over the course of this episode, no matter how bad Cristina wanted things with Burke to go back to normal, she realized that they can’t.  Because Burke isn’t interested in that.  He wants to move forward.  He wants Cristina to commit to this wedding.  He basically wants Cristina to change her ways.  And, she does.  A little.  Because, much like Cristina’s diabetes patient, Doug, she doesn’t have much of a choice.

When Cristina tells Doug that, even though he lost his foot, he still has a lot left to lose – she’s talking about herself.  She realizes she’s got to give Burke something, because she’s in grave danger of losing him if she doesn’t.  So, that’s what Cristina’s doing with all of that talk about City Hall and mosquito netting…

There’s another scene in tonight’s episode that’s worth talking about.  It’s when Alex presents the different faces to our Jane Doe.  Wasn’t it nice to see Alex in a new light?  It’s interesting to see him have a real relationship with a woman that isn’t based on sex.  This is a real connection with someone Alex isn’t linked to romantically.  And, finally, Jane Doe gets a real name and a new face.  Ava.  All thanks to Alex.

Well, there’s so much more to say, but that’s all the time I’m going to take away from you.  I’m just as excited as you to see what lies ahead for our characters.  I hope you enjoyed tonight’s episode!

Comments

[McDark&Twisty]

I thank you, dear writers, for bringing the Burke and Cristina I love oh so much back. Or at least starting too.

More to come once I stop doing my happy dance.

i just want to say that this episode felt like home to me.

[Lost]

Great episode and wonderful blog. I am not one of the many that soared to the rafters over Izzie and George. I trust you guys - you've got a wonderful show and I like that you aren't always predictible.

The scene in the linen closet was perfect - wonderfully perfect - great job.

Poor Der worrying about Mer giving up and even though she does not realize it - she is sooo lucky to have someone "hover".

Anyway - great epi, great season and great blog :-)

[Felicity Bradshaw ;)]

We LOVED this episode! Great job! The chemistry between Izzy and George was ELECTRIC. Can't wait for the next ep!

p.s. as for the television without pity fans--whatever. You're obviously doing something right by inspiring such a strong reaction.

[Julie]

Great Episode! I was really surprised to see that Izzie was actually interested in George. I truly believed she was going to completely regret it...You guys never cease to surprise me!

And thanks for the great Meredith and Derek scenes--worth the wait!

Keep up the good work!

[MJ]

Great show....looking forward to seeing how long it takes for Callie to find out!

[Brandon, MD]

I must say the closet scene was both heart-breaking and thoroughly amazing.

I am excited in your plan. Seriously, excited.

I thought this might have been the most well-written episode of the season, SERIOUSLY.

Uhm, yeah. My heart broke alot. Also, your blog? So Shonda. So...informative, explanatory, what a blog should be. I loved your blog. Loved it.

Kudos to everything and keep it up.

Just...WOW for tonight.

[SG]

Wow! It was even good Izzie/George hmm hmm. You know I hate for callie to be hurt but I still am mad at her for always being mad at george. Don't kno where you are going with this but it looks to be an interesring ride!

[Tracy]

Hi Chris,

Great job on tonight's show! All of the character's grew a lot tonight, and that is something we've been waiting for a long time! Your fan club is extrememly proud of you for bringing them so far. Thank you, thank you, thank you, and, again, you're fantastic! We all agree with your blog!!! Keep up the fantastic writing!!!

[K Gray]

Dope episode. I might be in the minority, but i actually agree that the george and izzie relationship has been a LONG time coming, and i actually kind of love that they made the "mistake." i find it difficult to feel sad for callie, because she has treated george like her subordinate not just in the workplace but in their relationship since the beginning, it feels like she's always pushed him into it.
i just loved Katherine Heigl and Izzie in tonights episode. Written well, and acted fantastically.
Mer-Der sex HAS been a long time coming. thank you.
i will be really pissed off if mark gets chief... he's a 4 year old.

[Tiffany]

thankyou for the merder scene at the end.
yes, i am mad about the izzie and george sex thing, but i know you & shonda & all the other wonderful writers have something planned to amaze us viewers.

i hear the next new grey's anatomy epi won't be for another 2 weeks.
i'll be waiting for "every moment counts".

thanks for an awesome thursday night. yet again.

[Annie]

Great show.. Great show. I can't wait to watch it again.
It was great to see Alex soft and human. It was nice to see Christina grovel a bit. The Callie/George/Izzy thing scares me a BUNCH.
Can't the people who are actualy in a relationship talk to their partner? All the palyers talk to other players, not their partners. This is probably the #1 mistake in real life... Show us how to talk to our partners! We all know how to destroy each other.
I know it is TV.. but it is good TV! You could throw a couple of other lessons in a show besides surgical procedures.
Please don't become like ALL the other no-relationship shows. Let us see something new. We already love the show!
Thanks,
Annie

[Cinny]

Ah! Thank you so much for that amazing episode! It is definitely one of my favorites this season.

And an even bigger thank you for all the happy Mer/Der (and sometimes not so happy) scenes tonight; I have been part of the mass demanding more than a casual 'hello' in the hallway. I loved the first scene when Derek walked into the room (after watching her) and smelled her hair and told her that he was just breathing her in <3 If I a random lightning bolt had hit my house after that, I would have died a happy woman. Seriously. And I decided that I would just take the eye sex that I saw in the previews and be happy with that...but it was even better to see the real suss at the end!!! But, I'm still a little worried about Derek considering the mess that he is currently in...I'm really hoping that he talks to Meredith about what happened, soon...before it affects them in an unhealthy way.

George and Izzie...looked like they had some pretty amazing sex. And like you said, that moment in the linen closet...I thought for sure they were going to kiss (it even had kissing music in the background)...but then he ran. And I like seeing the way that this had affected them at the end...because. Well. The adultry was wrong...but...in those moments that they were together, I could see the sparks flying that were currently hidden because of their friendship. I'm not sure how it is going to work out...but I hope everything works out the best for everyone involved.

I adore the fact that Meredith and Derek are the only ones invited to Christina and Burkes wedding...I'm not sure how their overbearing mothers are going to take it...but I think that the results will be comical!

Just a side note: are the scenes that were cut from this episode (you know, almost every scene from the promos) going to make it onto the DVD's? 'Cause I REALLY want to see them!

Thank you again for an amazning episode!

[greys_cello_fan]

Hello!!
Just wanted to say what an awesome epsiode you put together for us fans tonight. I anticipated every moment with the tension among George, Izzie, and Callie. Poor George-incredibly hung over. I cheered at the end with Cristina and Burke and Meredith's successful surgery, loved Alex's compassion with Jane Doe, and laughed at Mark. Keep it up and can't wait to see more (speaking of which, when's the next episode going to be?)

[tina]

i know it's a great episode when it goes to commercial, i get really worried that the episode is almsot over, look at the clock, and am relieved to see i still have 15 minutes to go. loved it!!

[Shari]

still not a fan of the whole George & Izzie "romance". I am kind of sick of all the cheating on this show.

But I still love it and look forward to it every single Thursday and I don't know how I will survive this long break, and the even longer break over the summer.

More MerDer please. Angst is okay as long as they are together :)

wow.

[Shari]

still not a fan of the whole George & Izzie "romance". I am kind of sick of all the cheating on this show.

But I still love it and look forward to it every single Thursday and I don't know how I will survive this long break, and the even longer break over the summer.

More MerDer please. Angst is okay as long as they are together :)

[FANFANFANFANFANFANFAN]

OKAY. SOOOOOOOOOOOOO.

----i like we're getting back into the swing of things.

ie: funny lines, CUTE romantic stories, emotional, heart-wrenching medical stories.
----but i feel like you all are being indecisive still.

ie: addison and alex? you leave us with one minute scenes every episode of great chemistry and that's it...???
----izzie/george. i didn't quite follow. DOES izzie have feelings for him?! that hand on the face gesture in the closet was SHOCKING.
OH. and if they get together/keep hooking up, anything, i think i will have lost all faith in my favorite favorite show.
----on another note, i thought katherine heigl acted phenomenally in this episode.

----and happy to see more addison, mcsteamy, bailey.

--------i don't know. i'm undecided still. i'd give this a solid B+ (which, at my high school, is actually considered basically an F to any kid who receives that ghastly grade)

but yeah, keep up with the funny and cute. oh and i never thought i'd say this, but i kind of miss crying in episodes.
------i don't seem to get as emotionally invested in the storylines. which can't be a good thing....???

[Janice]

Love, love this show and all the flawed human characters in it!
MerDer are back to acting like they mean something to each other; Burke and Christina continue to learn the art of compromise, and oh, poor Callie and George and Izzie! The scene in the closet was so incredible you could feel their frustration. But please find someone nice for Izzie!
Roger Rees (Nicholas Nickelby! sigh) is adding some spice, but where is Bailey? Love the way you are adding more layers to Karev - he's also great in pediatrics, writers!
It has been such a great ride through this show and Shondraland...don't let us down when you add Gray's 2!

[emily]

Loved it, loved it, loved it! I was soooo unhappy when Gizzie had sex last week, but I am sold! Amazing episode and GREAT comeback. Love me some Grey's!!!

[Marie from Way Down South In Dixie]

Ok OK.... I get it....this has been brewing for a long long time....but it just seems WRONG!!! I mean George and Izzy!! for goodness sakes. To me there really was no closure for Izzy....I know it was suppose to be romantic with Denny dying before the so called "honeymoon" was over..but it just feels so unresolved.

When Meredith was dead and was speaking with Denny there was no mention of Izzy except when he said he could almost feel her. But no message that he loved her or anything....

Maybe Izzy needs to have a near death experience and have a long long discussion with Denny. Kinda like Meredith but to finally resolve everything once and for all with Denny....let him go on to the "great beyond" and let Izzy finally go on and find someone (not George or gosh sakes) that will love her for her.

I know that the writers try to keep things "real".... but I guess the reason so many people were soooo upset with Denny dying is because in this crazy world we sometimes need to have a little fantasy and that is what Izzy and Denny were....goodness and happiness and fantasy...not the everyday things that go on that drive people crazy..but something that we mortals can escape to...and can make us smile and sigh...and for a little while forget the hassles and stress and dream of a perfect world...

[Katherine]

I'm not one bit angry that George and Izzie had sex. So there! Actually, it just seems to make sense. Adultery is horrible, but it's TV so I don't take it so personally. I like a good story! I find this whole falling in love scenario between 2 best friends satisfying, because it is Izzie & George. I never saw that coming- I like these twists! Thanks Chris and tell Shonda she is the WOMAN! Way to keep things interesting. It's not always about Meredith & Derek having sex! My favorite scene is the linen closet too...I wanted them to tell each other how they really felt without any of the complications. I wanted to see them kiss dangit! Anyways, thank you, thank you, thank you! Please no re-runs next week ok? I look forward to Thursday nights!

[Mrs. Karev]

I'm slightly in love with Alex Karev. It was not so long ago I HATED Alex Karev, but seeing him grow into a human being makes me happy. Thank you for making me happy. Poor Callie tho, although I COMPLETELY get the bff hook up 'cause it can be impossible to not feed the beast with the person who is ALWAYS there for you, poor Callie, nuff said.

[Dan]

I don't know about everyone else, but I got all sorts of warm and fuzzy feelings about Izzie and George... similar to feelings about Jim and Pam on The Office. I like them together, and I'm actually rooting for them. I don't like George and Callie at all.

Just don't get Izzie pregnant or something. Cristina got pregnant after sleeping with Burke and blew a fallopian tube, and Meredith thought she was pregnant after sleeping with Derek (but had appendicitis), so please don't even mention pregnancy with Izzie.

[Mary in DC]

You somehow managed to redeem yourself a bit this week. I'll never buy the gizzie thing- But you somehow managed to play it out well. What I liked most was that it didn't take up a large portion of the epi. You can do what you want with them because the whole storyline doesn't hold my attention. But I'll admit I loved the scene in the linen closet- the whole thing played out without words- a really good sccene- I'll give TR and KH that much. But people can be flawed without having sex- you writers seem to get that confused.

I'm loving this dark Dereck. Finally PD gets some acting. Anyway- I love their whole storyline. And I loved PD tonite. Always will. Thank you for his scenes. This is what we've been asking for- we don't need to see mer/der sex everyweek- just come relating, communicating. I miss that love story.

Loved how you've developed Alex- slow and steady and I can't wait to see him every week to see where he goes.

And Burke confused me a little tonite- when he said he didn't want to go back- after cristina spent the night somewhere else- I thought he meant that he didn't want their relationship anymore- so it was confusing when cristina showed up in the end. Also- you seem to confuse a wedding with a marriage. Are you trying to show that Burke wants a wedding- where cristina is more focused on the marriage? I don't get what Burke's problem is with her not wanting a wedding- but is ready to commit to a marriage- with a piece of paper or not.

What happen to Mark jumping rope in the promos? We were all waiting to see McSteamy in all his steamyness- I hope you didn't cut that out. And Mark was great this epi.

Overall- you redeemed yourself. Great job and Great blog.

[Sandrine]

Quite simply -- I just loved the episode! Seriously!

[T]

I personally love the idea of George and Izzie together, but I'm a star crossed lover type girl I guess.

[LuPhoenix]

I'm really, really, really trying to have faith that you know what you're doing....because from where I'm watching on my sofa... Callie/George/Izzie situatin is a trainwreck. Yes, seriously, a trainwreck!

I get the confusion and difficulties for Mer/Der. Just make sure they come through those difficulties because they make me smile.

Yes, I love Ava and Alex. I know it's going to put a crimp in everything when her family finds her.... unless she's on her own because her husband/ boyfriend is dead from the ferry tragedy. If this happened in real life, I'm thinking the local media would be broadcasting about her so where is the realism on that one? Get that media in there & bring more drama to the hospital.

[Sula]

No matter who is to blame and how much Gizzie's adultery is referred to as "really, really good sex," there is nothing that can justify the turn these characters have made.

Redeem these characters and let's see more Bailey. Way too little screen time and story development!

[Tracey]

We need MORE Alex. This isn't "a new light" for me. I have loved this character from day one. I'd just like to see him fleshed out more like the other interns...please?

[jessicafreels]

Look chris I am one of those people who think the Izzie George thing is..well wrong. However you gave me something to think about with Izzie other than, "Will you please stop being crazy." Every time Izzie spouts platitudes at her patients, I want to slap her. But I felt kind of sad for her, because she realizes something big, and she can do nothing about it. I did feel for George...and my heart broke for Callie. You know this isn't going to end well.
I loved Sloane and all he was doing and when he stood up to Merideths accusation I was glad. Sloane is the anti George, and he doesn't take her critique with Salt. HE KNOWS WHO HE IS. George doesn't. It makes George all the more sad cause he is now questioning everything.
Derek... he looks so scared. And Merideth looks so determined to fight for everything she realized she could have lost. I wonder if she will ever tell him what she told Denny.
And as always, I am falling more in love with Alex every week.
Pretty good...seriously.

[Anna]

No way am I the first comment...I'm speechless. But regardless of how much my heart will break when I finally hit "post" and see that TRUE tally of "26897538 comments" appear, I'll perservere.

Gorgeous, beautiful, encore, encore! Once again I am literally left breathless as that familiar Shondaland rollercoaster appears (can I mention how mad I am ABC has stopped running previews for the nexy Grey's episode at the end of the show??!?!). This has to be one of my favorite episodes this season, simply because each character had PUNCH. Alex and Ava. Addison and Alex. Mer and Der. Mer and Mark. Christina and Burke. Miranda and Mark (loved the look she gave the Chief when Mark came out of the interview!)...I could go on, but oh God, IZZIE AND GEORGE. Count at least one fan firmly in the Izzie/George camp, because as much as Callie has grown on me the last two years, it'll always be (and always HAS to be) Izzie and George.

[ali]

AMAZING episode.

You had me rapt with attention, laughing, gasping, muttering, the whole deal, all the way through...

I think I'll post later on the specific story lines, but just wanted to let you know that I'm by no means raving mad at you writers...

The characters are growing and interacting in ways that are different, amazing and, at times, deffinatly a little scary... but you guys pull it off with such skill. I love, root and feel for these characters more than ever.

Thanks for such a great episode.

[Nikki]

I loved tonights episode! Love, love loved it! And I'm super excited that t aired this week and now next! I'm still in shock over the whole Izzie and George thin...but i think best friends can work, great relationships start out as friends first anyways, right? And i loves the Mer-Der relationship. I only hope to find a guy who cares that much about me one day :) Thanks again for an awesome episode!!!

[Riley]

Excellent Episode and excellent blog! You covered everything! Very exciting to finally see some Mer/Der time and to see Burke/Christina "moving forward"! Sad we have to wait so long now!

[Lauren]

Congrats on your first episode, Chris! I thought the fallout from Izzie and George went spectacularly well - I was one of those television watchers without pity last week, but that moment at the end of the episode with George looking up at the ceiling sold it for me.

[Robin]

Bless you!

You gave me some Alex/Addison and calmed the whines of the merder fans. For this I am eternally grateful. Great episode! I hope you write more.

[katie]

This was the Best episode i have ever seen in my life. You are just amazing at what you do. It was so intense watching what izzie and george had to go through.(Knight & Heigl were phenomenal)The sex OMG. I could feel how much they love each other. The scene in the closet made me feel like i was going to die for them. Please make it alright for them they deserve to be together.(hopefully forever)

great first episode, i like the theme of this week's episode- it's true for EVERYONE.

[R]

While I thought the last episode was more a return to what I have always loved about Grey's, I went into this episode with low expectations. This was probably due to the fact that there has been little to no Mer/Der conversation (let alone heat) all season, and I knew the fallout from George and Izzie would have to be dealt with. But, I was pleasantly surprized that the episode managed to keep up the trend of what I loved about episode 18: intern interaction, balance amongst storylines and characters that favours what the show originally presented itself as being about - interns and Mer/Der/Chris/Burke, and the mix of drama and comedy.

My further surprize was that the episode also answered some of the demands I (and other fans) have had regarding the show of late. The interns (and particularly Meredith) finally all practiced medicine and acted like, well, interns! The George/Izzie fallout was not as horrible as I anticipated - I still am not in favour of the storyline, but TRK and KH's acting, as well as the excellence of the rest of the episode made this bearable. I will reserve my judgment as yet to see where you intend to move this.

But the best parts of tonight's show? All the wonderful Mer/Der scenes showcasing actual conversation that reflected their state of mind after all that has happened and showed them dealing somewhat with everything. I am delighted that for once this season I am not waiting to read a blog or listen to a podcast to hear that Mer and Der talked! Who knew you writers could actually write meaningful interaction between the two? The kissing/cuddling/implied sex was also nice to finally see, but more important to me was that we finally saw them talk as a couple. I was so pleased to finally see this, that you could almost have written crap for the rest of the show and I would have ate it up!

Finally, the Alex/Addison moment was also nice to see - even though the spinoff has seemingly killed this storyline, this scene left me hopeful that you will wrap this up in a satisfying way.

Please keep up this new writing that is more a throwback to the Grey's I fell in love with!

[Lisa]

That was an awesome blog, and an awesome episode! And i'm actually really interested in seeing where the george-izzy thing will take off from here... secrets that this can't stay secrets, even between two best friends.

[Brittany]

I loved My fav Mistake!!!! Thank you for not breaking up Burke and cristina!!!!! I can't wait to see the wedding!!!! Burke in that Suite was HOTT!!!!!! Love the show!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Greysfan32]

First of all, thanks Chris for a wonderful writers' blog. Really. It's so refreshing to read an episode writer recound the nitty gritty of the episode and address the fans' reaction to events rather than give us a protracted history of their life and times leading up to that ep. Kudos! You may be new, but I like you already.

Good episode overall. I actually really liked some of the repair work on Burketina and Mer/Der. I'm really not the biggest Mer/Der fan, but I did aww at their bedroom scene at the end. However, I'm really sorry but no amount of explanations and circumlocuting will make me change my stance regarding Izzie and George. If those two end up in a relationship at the expense of Callie, I will be pissed off. It was wrong. Period. No it was wrong but wasn't it so right? It was WRONG. And I don't even blame George so much as I blame Izzie. I'm definitely curious to see where this will go, but no way no how would Callie ever escape unscathed, and do suggest so is an insult to her character. I hope she has better things coming her way. She's really been a sacrificial lamb from the start.

[R.]

Okay, first of all, I LOVED this episode. I thought it was very well written, and incredibly well acted. Maybe this show is finally getting back on track.

Second, THANK YOU SO MUCH for the Alex/Addison scenes. I'm still giddy over them, especially after the nothing we got last week. PLEASE keep them coming, and let us (the Alex/Addison shippers) enjoy the remaining episodes we have left with Addison on the show.

I'm totally loving the Alex/Jane Doe friendship, and extremely thankful that it is just that, a friendship, and not a romantic thing. Alex has grown so much this season (mostly because of Addison) and is now my favorite character along with Addison (...and Bailey ...and Cristina).

Concerning your comment about how it's interesting to see Alex have a real relationship with a woman that is not based on sex, I have to say that I agree completely, but I would also like to add that he also had that going with Addison. Even if their relationship was going to become romantic, it didn't start with sex (unlike Meredith/Derek or Cristina/Burke). Their relationship started as a mentor-student relationship and developed into something more, which is refreshing. And that is also why Alex/Addison is becoming the second most popular ship after Meredith/Derek. Alex and Addison are not just attracted to each other, they respect one another and admire one another and genuinely care about each other, and that's what a real, mature relationship should be made of.

On a more shallow note, the chemistry between Kate Walsh and Justin Chambers is phenomenal. They can set my screen on fire just by being in the same room. It would be such a shame for that chemistry to go to waste.

I loved how you handled the Izzie and George situation. The closet scene was fantastic, kudos to Katherine Heigl and TR Knight for giving stellar performances. I also loved the scene with Izzie and Addison. And the scene with Cristina and Burke at the end. That reminded me of why I used to like them so much.

Thank you again for a great episode!

[notworried anymore]

ill admit it, i was one of THOSE worried people because merder weren't talking about real things, the whole incident didn't seem to be affecting them, izzie and george had sex, and colin whatever showed up. so i was worried. don't ge me wrong, its not like i would ever give up on the show (it's my life), but i was getting worried. but you, my new, very funny friend, have put those worries to ease-for now at least. george and izzy really aren't OK because they really did do that, and christina and burke are, working on things. most importantly, the death thing IS affecting derek and affecting him alot, and seemingly oblivious to this is meredith who is affected in her own way. anyway you did an AMAZING job on this episode. it was funny with some awesome one liners (the whole jesus thing) and for the first time in a while all of the patient stories really got to me. GREAT GREAT job......keep working hard......o and great blog too, lots of good information.

[Rachelle]

I am starting to like Alex. I despised this character up until Jane Doe arrived at Seattle Grace. Now, I see him growing, testing out the waters of caring overtly.

Could anyone else feel the temperature rise in that linens room? Whew!

[Angela]

Great blog Chris! And I loved tonight's episode, very well written and multi-layered.
However, I'm sorry to have to say this, but I must voice my opinion as a fan. I do not like the direction George and Izzie is going. It just feels icky and wrong. I really liked George and Callie together, and I'm glad you feel as bad for her as I do. I love Sara Ramirez and I really want to keep her on the show, even if it can't be with George. But I really, really, really don't like Gizzie, mainly because I feel like Izzie is being rewarded for being so horrible to Callie.

[Chelsea in Erie]

Izzie and I are done.
George and I are done.
I want Mark to be Chief.
Can Callie move to Grey's 2.0?
If Alex and Smush become Izzie/Denny 2.0, I'm done with Alex.
I only like Meredith with Cristina.
I love Cristina and Burke, but don't know why anymore.
Is Chandra Wilson sick? She's barely been a blimp the last two episodes.
Derek needs to talk to a professional and Richard should've noticed.
Very little Addison is always bad but she's getting her own show and that'll fix me.

[Ashley_Canadian_Eh?]

im really glad u discussed more than the Gizzie sex. I'm not horrified by the sex, as just like Mer/George it was being set up from the beginning... its more so how it happened.. him being married to Callie, who I adore, even though she has been blaming George for stuff lately. I love Callie... Callie is just .. she's Callie and great and I hate that he hurt her even though she doesnt know it yet... and as Addison has said at the beginning of the season (episode 1).. your secrets they come out, they just do.. so we all know hes gonna have to hurt callie.. im not sure which is worse.. telling her now or waiting til she is so far in there is no getting out and then having her world come crashing down on her.. this sucks for that reason..

now for the mer/der of it all. omg thank you SOOOOOOO MUCH! that was some much deserved action... i was just so moved with them.. my heart broke everytime i saw derek sad. I honestly think that he is just amazing.. yes i know everyone else does too, but the way he can convey his emotions with one simple look.. breaks my heart... makes it melt.. man i swear patrick dempsey is a genious! thats why i have his picture iron-ed on to my rep suit... with a bunch of other greys pictures :p... umm ya..

The chemistry him and Ellen have is just purely amazing so those scenes had me feeling just what they were..

burketina.. i loved cristina's wedding plans.. her burke mer, shep if burke wants and a justice of the peace,.. thats it .. sounds like a cristina wedding to me...

mark.. wow hott in that suit or what.. altho,... not a fan of what he pulled with the interview

im quite worried about the race for chief.... derek needs to focus but him and mer need to discuss this death stuff... it needs to be hashed out... meredith may be an avoider but it has to be done..

and finally i wish we could have addisex but is probably being put on hold in case of the spin off which sucks for us cos i know lots of people hoping for just that... but the jane doe scenes with alex so cute...

and with that.. great job.. oh and colin marlowe altho he has a great accent.. kinda gives me the creeps :S

[Cindy]

Ahhh I'm so scared Callie is gonna leave the show and I don't want her to! Please keep her on!

[Jacquline]

FINALLY! A writer's blog that acutally talks about the episode it pertains to... and not just the most obvious shocker of the show.

There are other things going on in this show besides Izzy and George sleeping together. We want to know about the others, too!

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!

[Liz]

You are the best blog writer ever!! I loved how you explained about all the characters:) awesome job and awesome episode!

[Mitch]

You're going to get a lot of people hating you, not only for Gizzie, but also for George's decision not to confess to Callie.

I just wanted you to know, I get it. He's right; he would only be unburdening his conscience on her for his own benefit. It's his mess to carry. Yeah, they were drunk; no, there has never been so much as a clue that they have any kind of romantic feelings for each other, these things do happen. That's why they're called "Uh-oh Mornings".

But George.....he has to carry it to protect Callie. What can he say? "I'm sorry I went and had great sex with the worst possible person in the world"? How to make her believe that it was just drunk sex and that if he has anything to say about it, it will never happen again? She won't believe it; she'll think he did it on purpose to see if the "blonde, stacked model" actually has feelings for him.

That will only hurt Callie and make George feel a little better. Less guilty, anyway - and he doesn't deserve that. Because even though it was drunken sex, even though it wasn't planned, there is always a moment when you can back out...and he didn't. So he can carry his guilt to his grave.

O/T - was that comment in your blog a shout-out to Television Without Pity? Because we were hoping that you writers are reading; we aren't all mean, you know.
:-)

[mkim]

Okay...George and Izzy feel really terrible...that's good.

Izzy has been one of my favorite characters but I cant get my head around her doing this. I'm sure Shonda knows where she's going, its her show, but I dont get 'the point' yet.
There has to be one, please tell me it will be obvious before the season is over.

I do feel sorry for Callie, its painful to see anyone humiliated like that, and she has been, she just doesnt know it yet. And again, there's got to be a point, a reason a lesson...please. I'm sick of pointless sex and pointless pain, at least on TV.

Cant the good people...be good and not screw each other over???

I just reread this, I sound awful, you'd never think I was absollutely crazy about this show...but I have been.

I just hope there was a point to YOUR favorite mistake.

[KatielovesMeredith]

Is this really your first Grey's episode? Because it was definitely CLASSIC Grey's. Which in case you didn't know, that is a good thing. Meredith seemed so Meredith, for which I thank you. Because I [obviously] love her. But not only that everybody was everybody. Derek was McDreamy, Mark was cocky but still very steamy and Alex grew up and...Well it was all just very good. I really have no other way to describe it.

I never had much feelings one way or the other for George and Izzie... but that episode made me think that [had George not been married] it MIGHT not have been such a bad thing.

Thank you for giving me my show back.-Katie.

Oh, and I'm glad that you gave Meredith a chance to do good in surgery. To 'make dead mommy proud' as well as me.

[Vanessa]

For the first time in weeks, I have actually felt happy after watching Grey's. Thank you so much for actually portraying Meredith and Derek's relationship on screen rather than Joe's blog. I was skeptical in regard to George and Izzie and as sorry as I feel for Callie, I would much rather see George and Izzie than Callie, although Alex and Izzie are much better than any of the rest. My only complaint in the episode was the adultery/magic line, seriously? So we get that this is a very secular, Godless society, but it really is not necessary. Thanks for a wonderful episode!

[No_Gizzie]

Seriously? Again. Seriously? George and Izzie. Wow, let me just say I almost vomitted watching the sex. I mean come on they're like brother and sister and you're "taking them places." Why can't they be just friends? Not everyone has to sleep with everyone. Not everyone has to have secret feelings for one another. And George he has this really great girl that loves him and it seemed like you kept pushing George to Callie and then you go and ruin it. I'm really trying here to see where you're going with this Gizzie thing, but I can't. I just can't. Shonda says to blame her for it so fine I blame Shonda for the horrible George and Izzie sex and I'll blame her for her apparent "plan" for them.

And if you do break up Callie and George please give her someone. Don't just throw her away like garbage. She doesn't deserve that.

[Kay]

Shonda, you are delusional to think that Izzie and George are some fated meant-to-be thing. Best friends of the opposite sex can have a normal, platonic relationship that has nothing to do with INTENSE!!111 feelings for one another. George and Izzie (GAG) is plain awful.

I will never understand your obsession with having the men commit adultery and get away with it, yet Addison was punished for an entire season for reaching out for some comfort when her husband, SUPPOSEDLY MCDREAMY, became absent.

I call bullshit. Jeez, this show has gone down from what it once was.

[No_Gizzie]

Seriously? Again. Seriously? George and Izzie. Wow, let me just say I almost vomitted watching the sex. I mean come on they're like brother and sister and you're "taking them places." Why can't they be just friends? Not everyone has to sleep with everyone. Not everyone has to have secret feelings for one another. And George he has this really great girl that loves him and it seemed like you kept pushing George to Callie and then you go and ruin it. I'm really trying here to see where you're going with this Gizzie thing, but I can't. I just can't. Shonda says to blame her for it so fine I blame Shonda for the horrible George and Izzie sex and I'll blame her for her apparent "plan" for them.

And if you do break up Callie and George please give her someone. Don't just throw her away like garbage. She doesn't deserve that.

[alfonse]

Nice blog! Very satisfying for us fans and very Shonda-like (we all love her blogs!).

[greys fan]

I love the Burke/Cristina scene at the end!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for keeping them together after everything they've been through and for helping them to communicate a little more! Awesome episode!

[Anna]

Amazing episode and I mean it. Izzy and George in the closet was hands down the best scene of the show, no words were necessary and it was perfect.

Meredith and Derek actually sharing screen time and dealing with things, having sex and being the sexy flirty couple they are (#1 Sexiest according to TVGuide) is what has been lacking on this show. I have such a smile on my face after watching them this episode. He loves her so much and he's so scared he'll lose her again.

[Theresa]

Thanks for the MerDer finally! That made me super happy! My DVR is officially broke from rewinding the final scene so many times. I will hold my tongue about George and Izzie till it pans out more. An.....interesting choice I guess, but I will hold my judgement until it develops more. It was a really great episode all around!

[Caroline]

Loved tonight's episode! I saw Izzie and George coming from a long, long time ago, and I had mixed feelings until tonight. The connection between them - all throughout, but especially the scene in the linen closet - the love was palpable! The sex was the hottest sex George has had so far, and the tension and looks in that room... oh, how we all felt it in the living room watching tonight. So beautifully written, and so beautifully acted.

Loved the Mer-Der sex too! And I loved how Ava talked to Alex about Addison, and is just like "so what??" about how she's his boss. I have been so invested in that relationship, I hope it gets taken somewhere before the spinoff - I need CLOSURE. I love the connection between Ava and Alex, too, though if it goes the route of doctor/patient romance I WILL stop watching.

One last note - I really loved the blog, and how well you covered so many of the characters tonight. That's the first in awhile that covered more than one story from the show, nicely done!!

[katie]

as shocking as the izzie george thing is, i'm interested to see where it goes... i don't want to see anyone get hurt. But i think they just both have lust for each other that is it.

[Sara]

Why God? Why? Why did you have to go there? No, I don't want to see George and Izzie having sex. I don't want to think about. No, there was NOTHING there between them in the linen closet. When Izzie held George's face, it was like she felt sorry for her pudgy-little-friend. I'm so disgusted that the writers get bullied around by the MerDer fans. They want a reunion, they get a reunion. They want sex. They get sex. But us Izzie and Alex fans who have held on through Ho-livia, Denny Baguette, and Addi-slut now have to watch THIS? When will WE get a happy ending with Alex and Izzie. Why are you torchuring us?

[ss]

Good blog!!!!! finally... Izze and George kinda makes me nervous. I never saw it coming, Izze having feelings for George. I mean doesn't it just say that two people from opposite sex cannot remains friends? I have been trying to fight this taboo my entire life.
Meredith and Derek, I am torn. I love this couple. I really do. I feel sorry for Derek. I like Meredith, but I want her to give Derek some slack. You know, it was SOO good to finally, she that part of her that we saw in season 1; the capable doctor.
I know it is not realistic to have everything bright and shinny for them. However, before you all decide to drop a bomb and tear them apart, please think. You all have built them to be the best couple in television. Be careful what you do to them. It was finally good to see them happy even though it came after some friction,
Christina is a very interesting character, I love here sometime and I hate her sometime. But, it will be interesting to see how it the wedding thing will play out.

[Melanie]

I really want to see Meredith and Derek get through this. I can't stand to see the tragic love story happen to them again. They need to talk about it, deal with the situation. (And, as writers, don't you feel a little obligated to follow up on the fact that Meredith gave up on life...not just act like her life is back to normal?)

They are the only reason I watch the show (now anyways, since it doesn't ever really have in depth patient stories) and I would really like to at least here them say that they love each other.

Meredith comes back from the dead because a "whiff" of Derek isn't enough, passing moments aren't enough...and she can't even tell him she loves him? Come ON! Even if you aren't that type of couple I would think that a near death experience would at least get and I love you. (Since they really do love each other)

Also I wish they would quit adding characters. Do you think that you have enough time between all the commercials to actually have character development when you are following at least 11 peoples' lives? Just a thought.

[allie]

A big fat THANK YOU on behalf of Mer-Der fans everywhere. Tonight? Tonight was gooood for our favorite couple. KEEP IT UP!

[sammie]

this episode was amazing!! this week and last week were two of the best in my opinion. the only thing i'm mad about is the fact that there isn't a new one for FOUR WEEKS! hopefully i'll survive. i thought izzie and george were going to kiss or something in the linen closet because that's what people do in there. and i'm glad meredith and derek had their moment...that last scene with them was perfect. i feel so bad for izzie right now. and i loved alex in this episode. and i love jane doe. and bailey needs to hurry up and be chief already (even though she can't yet). this is my favorite show ever and i'm eagerly anticipating the next episode!!! even the recap one :-)

[Maggie]

George and Izzie is soooo wrong. McVomit in my throat. All I want is Alex and Izzie. Are you there God? It's me Maggie!

[ss]

Good blog!!!!! finally... Izze and George kinda makes me nervous. I never saw it coming, Izze having feelings for George. I mean doesn't it just say that two people from opposite sex cannot remains friends? I have been trying to fight this taboo my entire life.
Meredith and Derek, I am torn. I love this couple. I really do. I feel sorry for Derek. I like Meredith, but I want her to give Derek some slack. You know, it was SOO good to finally, she that part of her that we saw in season 1; the capable doctor.
I know it is not realistic to have everything bright and shinny for them. However, before you all decide to drop a bomb and tear them apart, please think. You all have built them to be the best couple in television. Be careful what you do to them. It was finally good to see them happy even though it came after some friction,
Christina is a very interesting character, I love here sometime and I hate her sometime. But, it will be interesting to see how it the wedding thing will play out.

hey i was just wondering...if the interns have only been interns for only a year, and the show started back 2 years ago, why is george singing sexy back? that song just came out like the end of last year... oh by the way, love the mer/der in there this episode

[Layne]

You did an amazing job with the episode and the blog. It was really a nice return to what I love about Grey's Anatomy and that was the interns. I think you couldn't have been more right in the way you phrased things and I hope to every power in existence that you all are NOT paying the haters any attention.

George and Izzie in my eyes has always been something that was going to happen. It was just a matter of when. Katherine and TR had such amazing chemistry in those scenes. I think I could watch the closet scene a million times and not get tired of it.

It's been a hard few weeks trying to argue my case as a O'Stevens fan to some of the more extreme haters. You helped convert a few of them tonight and for that I'm grateful.

You really did a beautiful job with the script. The team did a great job. I loved the Izzie/Addison scene where Addison just knows that it was George. The whole interlude was beautifully crafted.

The ending was great as well.

I sincerely hope Ava/Alex happens. I think someone should date outside the hospital and frankly I've fallen in love with Jane Doe and her unborn child. One point of reference though, did you guys intentionally change the baby's gender. One episode it was a girl and the next Alex refers to it as her son. Clarification could be awesome.

And lastly, please put in a request with Shonda for a drunken 'Sexy Back' bonus feature on the S3 DVD.

[lovin greys]

Please make things good with George and Callie-- They are good for each other.... Izzie on the other hand is a little above George. MerDer will be doing good before long....hopefully she gets pregant {not Izzie}--Mer needs some time to slow down and take it easy....a pregnacy would do this:):)
McDreamy and Burke will share the cheif job--what do ya think????????

[Karla]

I don't understand what all this talk is about--who is mad about Izzy and George? I have been wanting them to get together since the first season. Of course, I never imagined that it would happen this way either...you know, in drunken passion filled sex. But it happened as you say, and something had to happen. I seriously had to replay the scene in the linen closet 3 times because it moved me so much. I wanted to cry for thr two of them and for what's to come. :deep sigh: Oh how I love characterization. It makes my heart dance. :)

[KCS]

im upset....not about the episode...but because i didnt get to see it...i guess my tivo didnt register the change so it didnt record. and my firend who records it missed the last few minutes cuz it went over the normal 10:01pm....tivo is killing me. from what i can tell about the blog tho...im not gonna be happy about izzie and george...y'all kinda sprung that on us and i'm so not feeling it. i dont care what kinda looks they give each other now.

and im still pissed that izzie seems to be getting away with treating callie so badly. i love that girl and since you all are not gonna have her be with george....u better bring her some bomb a** guy that can be HER rebound that treats her right and loves her. cuz callie's awesome...and you dragged her into the intern drama and made her hurt....that sucks...izzie is like a hurricane...she destroys everyone and everything in her path.

i use to like that girl but...not this season...thats for sure.

can't wait to see mer/der...i love dempsey and cant wait to see him go through and then of course the romance :)

but i'll have to wait for itunes, abc, or friday night....whatever comes first.

boo tivo

[Lillian]

I'm disappointed. Life is not about six degrees of sex...how many people in close proximity that you can have sex with. Just a suggestion: stop going for shock factor and get back to the Grey's we loved.

[Laura]

BRAVO! I L.O.V.E.D this episode. Horray- Grey's is back in full force. Brilliant! (PS. Sorry for ripping on last episode- I should have had faith in you writers)
First, I have to say that Izzie's comment about Jesus not playing by the rules- drop dead hilarious! She was fab in this episode- I am hoping that her & George get together & stay together. I feel terrible for Callie though.
Mer & Der- whoohoo!!! Mer is frustrating, but it's great to see Der hanging in there & how passionatly he loves & cares for her.
There were many other great moments in this epi, but I have to get to bed.
Just wanted to say THANK YOU!

[Alicia]

Even though I am a face scruncher-screaming at the tv kind of girl, it keeps me comming back for more. I love the show! But I have to say I am worried about Derek, perhaps he is changed in a forever kind of way, from that ferry boat optimist to someone like that girl who worries too much about her mom. Why is it that Mer is still looking for admiration from her mom - now she has daddy and mommy issues...
PS I love going back and watching old episodes to see the character arcs - though Alex has had very little in the way of backdrop.

[McDark&Twisty]

Thank you. And I love you (but you already knew that.)

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for ending the episode on a happy Bang note.

I totally understood the whole thing with him wanting to move forward. All she had to do was decide if she'd be willingly to move forward with him, for him. And she did, just like she should have, just like Cristina would. Because as stubborn as she is, there's always an exception to that, and he's that exception for her. Not every situation with him, but many. And it's because she loves him.

Thank you for finally ending this Bang drama-streak we've had going almost all season. You're letting them be happy. I know that at any time, out of evilness or boredom or whatever, but I have a feeling that they're finally done with the drama for awhile. So THANK YOU.

And like Izzie said, when you have a really good thing, don't let it go. Listen to her. Don't let it go.

You know what would make me REALLY happy? Like, so happy that I'll never say you guys suck or that I hate you ever again (even though I never really mean it to begin with)? I know this is a longshot, but...

Let us see their wedding. I'm not going to go all fangirl on your butts and start using all capital letters and freaking out so much that you can barely read my typing, but it really would mean so much to not only me, but all Burktina fans. Even if it's just a small part of the wedding that we get to see.

Plus, we never got to see Callie and George get married at all. That should count a little towards letting us see Bang be happy and all.

And I know the promise of a loyal 14-year-old fan to never say that you suck or she hates you ever again, isn't much, but still. It really would be an absolutely cherished scene by ALL Burktina fans.

And I know that you say that you don't let our comments affect how the story goes, and as much as I wish it wasn't true, I understand that.

But please, just think about it.
That's all I ask.

[IVa]

Thanks for the Addisex moment. I thought you were going to drop it like it never existed.

Loved Burketina after finally giving up on them last week. I guess I'm back for a minute.

I don't give a flip about Izzie and George. Just let Callie, who I love, have some dignity.

Patrick Dempsey is perfect of course, but he mumbles a lot and it is really hard to hear his lines. I make out like 40% of everything he says the first time, and then I have to rewatch it many times to catch completely what he says. Just a suggestion for the love of my life :)

[Lillian]

It's all your fault Shonda. You ruined Grey's and it will never be the same again.

[Kim, Los Angeles]

Okay. OKAY. I just have to say...I don't like Izzie and George together. I really really really want them to JUST be friends. Close friends. Best friends. Friends that are truly there for each other and love each other and support each other no matter what but NOT (I repeat) NOT sleep with each other. And I really really want George and Callie to work. I hate that fact that she cares and loves him so much but just doesn't seem to get in fully in return. I thought it was wrong of Callie to agree to marry him so soon after his fathers death but ... well anyway. So, since the marriage thing happened it should happen for a little while longer. Let them live in happyland for a while. I know the truth will come out sooner or later but can you all PLEASE make it a little later. I mean REALLY!

Okay. One last thing. Can Meredith PLEASE PLEASE smile more this season? Good grief, hasn't the poor woman been through enough? Let her show how strong she really is and how great of a surgeon she is. So she gave up in the water. So her mother called her ORDINARY. At what point will she realize that she is anything but ordinary? Stop making her sleep walk through life and start being happy about still having one. And having Derek to boot. Man, that man is in some kinda love! REALLY!

I loved Alex tonight. Thank You for giving Alex a real stroyline that has nothing to do with sex. I am a little worried about Derek. His smile has dulled, his eyes are no longer sparkling, please help save him. Help Meredith save him, help her see that the drowing incident as ruined him. Please bring our Derek back!

[Gabi]

Thanks for an awesome blog Chris!
Still not liking George and Izzie. Okay, lets be honest, hating it. But you guys have a plan, and I am powerless to stop it. Just don't step all over Callie. I think that's why alot of people were mad last episode-its like George forgot all about his love Callie for supermodel Izzie. And pretty much demeaned her as a full-figured Latina woman, intentionally or no. I would prefer George and Callie OMalley to work things out. I just can't pee-dancing and proposal!

[Anon]

Fantastic episode - Grey's is back!!

[Tima]

I love the blog, great job. My favorite scene had to be Izzie and George in the linen closet - so intense, so perfect without words. Keep up the amazing work!

[McDark&Twisty]

Now that I am done being overly happy that my lovely Bang is FINALLY happy again and getting married...

Nice episode tonight. Not ground-breaking, but you've had enough of those kind of episodes for awhile.

I think tonight I'm actually going to talk about EVERYONE on the show, since Bang is happy now and I don't have to redundantly rant about them.

Alex- Loved loved LOVED all his things with Jane Doe. Very nice to watch him get a soft spot for her. And the bit of Addison/Alex flirting was nice also.

Bailey- DAMN McSteamy! It was the slightest bit of clever for him to take what Bailey said (a monkey could've figured out the same thing) and it helped him, but still. Of all people, he really shouldn't do that to Bailey. I mean, it's Bailey we're talking about. This just shows how much she should be cheif now. Damn, damn, damn him...

Meredith/Derek- Great plot arc for them for this episode the whole "He's using you!" "I can protect myself" "You were right, he was using me!", and ending with the sex. You know everyone loves some nice MerDer sex, now.

The race for chief- Like I said, DAMN McSteamy. He's being sneaky and manipulative. Yes, that's the smartest and easiest way to win, and he was able to figure it out, but still. I actually am the one who usually roots for the bad guy, but I just can't this time. BAILEY FOR CHIEF!!

Izzie/George/Callie- Honestly and oddly, this is one of the storylines I care leat about, but it's still worth comment.

UH OH. You crazy, crazy writers... I have nothing to say other than 1) "Ewww!" Nobody wants to see Gizzie doin' the nasty. Like many have said, it's too much like incest. And 2) I just can't wait to see how this will play out. Or if it will play out. Oh, one more: 3) Poor Callie!!!! :(

I already commented on Bang, I won't bother you by saying what you already know I think about it.

Overall, pretty good episode. Not the best, not the worst, but still really good quality in my opinion.

Except making us watch George and Izzie have sex. Shonda Rhimes, it's all YOUR FAULT!!!

[Samantha]

Her Chris! Love the blog, but not George and Izzie. When are we going to get some Alex and Izzie again? I really miss them :(

[Nat]

Great blog! I already see you pulling Addison away from the show and I do NOT like it. I want to watch 1 show--ONE. And that is Grey's. Pay attention to the characters you have created here, and let them grow with eachother!

Alex and Ava--kind of a cute storyline, but why is he getting so involved with his patient just like Izzie got involved with Denny. Are we going to do a replay, but have this be a happy ending? I'm wishing you came up with something more creative. Hopefully that's in store.

I hate that you have the entire cast sleeping with eachother. It's a little too much.

I'm waiting for Grey's to get good again; coming from a die-hard fan, you should be worried.

[diasppointed]

Well, I guess I have to start off by saying I will not be following the supposed amazing journey for Izzie and George with you. Why, so I can see a repeat of George and Izzie having this really, really good sex behind Callie's back. Once again Callie gets thrown to the dogs. I guess the sex George was having with her was just nothing. It really pisses me off that I wasted a year and half getting invested in this George and Callie relatonship only to now be told Izzie and George are this fantastic couple and I should be thankful for it. I just can't. I hate the fact that a scene had to be written where Sara Ramirez's looks were compared with that of Katie Hiegl and it was never addressed on the podcast. What was that saying to young girls?Forget about being a normal size woman and a woman of color because there is no way you can ever measure up to the supermodel. And to add to the fact that you had the characters Izzie and George laugh at Callie's insecurities on top of it, then have sex. Now I'm supposed to be okay with everything because these two belong together. Do we really need another story arc where Izzie and George sneak around behind Callie's back and continue with this amazing sex while George continues to beat himself up over it?You have Callie wondering why George won't touch her anymore? Could it be that he feels he's cheating on Izzie? Old insecurities come up, they fight, he goes to Izzie and the cycle repeats itself.It's Meredith and Derek in reverse (sarcasm). I thought Grey's was better than that. There is no way that everyone comes out okay in this unless someone leaves. Based on the way things are going that someone will be Callie. It's the most obvious choice. Cut to scene where party is thrown for the newlyweds, George can't handle it, goes to find Izzie and what do you know. They have sex only unlike Addison, Callie catches them. Her father has George sign annulment papers. He and Izzie cheer because now they're together and in love. George tells Callie I never loved you it's always been Izzie. Callie being humiliated leaves with her dad. I'll miss Sara Ramirez when she does go. I just feel like a complete and utter fool for thinking that at least one couple could remain faithful to each other and actually honor their wedding vows. Why even give George a girlfriend, have him marry her, and go have sex with Izzie? And we haven't even talked about how Alex will deal with this. I know he would have to have some feelings about this. There is no way this is going to end pretty. I really tought I had a show to watch for years to come. This storyline however, has just ruined it. I honestly feel like crying and I know it's stupid because it is just a tv show. But you see Callie was me. I almost feel like I'm being told that I was a fool for believing George loved Callie to begin with. So yay for all the Gizzie lovers you got your wish. For me I guess I'll have to continue to enjoy my George and Callie relationship in fanfics. Damn, I wish it didn't hurt so much.

[Rachel]

BEST EPISODE YET!!!! Oh my god thank you thank you thank you for the MerDer!!! And not only that, this entire episode was AMAZING. Soooo very powerful and I just loved it, espeicially with all the wonderful music....seriously it was FANTASTIC!!!

Thank god there was finally some MerDer, and not only random MerDer but actualy real issue MerDer....love the angsty Derek and the hair smelling and the hovering and ahhh they have amazing CHEMISTRY!!! Yup my favorite part was the end...have definitely watched it at least a dozen times and it is still Amazing!! Patrick Dempsey and Ellen Pompeo can make out in a bed like no other actors!!! I am really worried about poor Derek though, does he even know that Mer was pushed into the water or does he think she just jumped in willingly?!?! I really want to see that talk between them...like them saying what it would do to them if Derek hadn't saved her and Mer telling Derek that she did give up but she came back for him!!! Thank you sooooooooooo much for all the amazing MerDer scenes...and if you want to have some porny scene for the season finale I am all up for it. Say MerDer in a bed with NO clothes on :) Yup that would be perfect.

I was really really worried about Gizzie...particularly after seeing the nauseous scene in season 2 between Meredith and George. But I must say that it was very tastefully done....actually it was kinda hot which I never would have expected!! ANd i think you portrayed the after part perfectly....that scene in the linen room was so powerful and amazing.

Loved the Mark and Derek scene too, mainly because I love overprotective Derek and cause he's hot when he's angry :) But I would definitely be interested in seeing the relationship that Mark and Derek had before Derek left for Seattle...or some of the history between them. They were like brothers so it's still sad to see how much hate Derek has for Mark.

Love how Izzie went to Addison to discuss the adultery...II'm all for going Nip/Tuck with MerDer all the way. You see this is what happens to all your fans when you show an AMAZING sex scene during the season finale last year....our minds become porny minds!!! But I love it and I'm all for the MerDer porniness :)

Anyway this was an AMAZING episode...definitely my favorite yet, and not only for the mutliple scenes between MerDer but because I thought every character was really shown well in this episode and it was all so powerful and the music was amazing and yup it was Fantastic!!!

[Amy G]

I am asking of you pretty pretty pretty please with a cherry on top do not go there with George and Izzie. They had a brother and sister type of relationship and I really wish you would keep like that. Their friendship was my favorite thing about the show the one thing I always knew I would like when I hated everything else. Please don't ruin with feelings of romantic love. Keep it at one drunken night together please.

On another note what's with the lack of Addison lately? She's my favorite character and I would love to see more of her. I know you're planning a spin off but that shouldn't effect her normal air time on the show.

One thing I did like was Alex in his scenes with Jane Doe aka Ava. I enjoy seeing the softer side of Alex every once in a while. I like that Addison gets to see it too.

Enough of my ramblings. To make a longish post short I just want to repeat that I have no desire to see George and Izzie as anything more the best buddies, I would love to see more Addison, and I love seeing Alex.

[Kim, Los Angeles]

Okay. OKAY. I just have to say...I don't like Izzie and George together. I really really really want them to JUST be friends. Close friends. Best friends. Friends that are truly there for each other and love each other and support each other no matter what but NOT (I repeat) NOT sleep with each other. And I really really want George and Callie to work. I hate the fact that she cares and loves him so much but just doesn't seem to get it fully in return. I thought it was wrong of Callie to agree to marry him so soon after his father's death but ... well anyway. So, since the marriage thing happened it should happen for a little while longer. Let them live in happyland for a while. I know the truth will come out sooner or later but can you all PLEASE make it a little later. I mean REALLY!

Okay. One last thing. Can Meredith PLEASE PLEASE smile more this season? Good grief, hasn't the poor woman been through enough? Let her show everyone how strong she really is and how great of a surgeon she is. So she gave up in the water. So her mother called her ORDINARY. At what point will she realize that she is anything but ordinary? Stop making her sleep walk through life and start being happy about still having one. And having Derek to boot. Man, that man is in some kinda love! REALLY!

[Megan]

I just loved loved loved this episode. The feelings between Izzy and George were so raw... so real... It was just amazing! Totally did not expect it but I love surprises!!!! Keep up the amazing work!!!!

[Krys]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you for writing an interesting blog and including all the characters instead of just focusing on the Izzie and George stuff. (I honestly didn't care for last week's.)

You addressed it, you moved on to the other characters, and you didn't put down Callie. XD (I'm a Callie fan obviously.)

I'm not a George-Izzie fan (please don't call it Gizzie - I'd rather go with O'Stevens), but I trust that you guys know what you're doing. Yes, I freaked out. Okay, so I freaked out A LOT.

I'll be happy too if all parties involved get out okay. But there's gonna be a lot of hurt along the way. It's gonna be hard to watch because Callie... I love Callie, but it's obvious she's not gonna get her happy ending.

Izzie gets it. (Okay, so I'm slightly bitter. XD Give me time and I'll get over it. All of us who are in an uproar will. We'll calm down, we'll come back to watch, and it's all good.)

It's just - Callie fell in love deep (and I fell in love with her along the way) with her McDreamy. She gets George - his dad noticed it, and it just seemed right. She noticed George way, way before Izzie ever did, and she's gonna get hurt. Bad. It's gonna feel like watching a slow-moving train wreck. T__T

What I hate is that Izzie didn't seem to feel guilty at all. I suppose it's because she had this revelation about George, but still. From the Izzie who completely flipped on Alex a season ago, she knows what it's like to be on the other side. So I hope the bitchiness will subside for a bit. Let's get back to sweet Izzie. The Izzie that I like. Not this Izzie that I feel nothing for.

Oh, and if Callie ever finds out? Please let her take the high way.

All right, other characters... completely loved Alex tonight. I like that he has this connection with Ava, and it's not romantic. That's good. It's nice. (Though I kept thinking he figured out the whole O'Stevens thing. He's sometimes more perceptive than others give him credit for.)

I still adore Addison and hope to see more of her. Perhaps more Callie and Addison interaction? Their friendship was refreshing.

Don't know what else to say... oh, if Callie does ever find out, perhaps she can sing out her sorrow? XD Seriously, you guys must utilize Sara Ramirez's singing voice. If you did, I would just watch that part over and over - Sara's amazing.

Aaaannnnnddd... this comment is now ridiculously long. Sorry about that. I look foward to the podcast. Again, please don't just focus on the O'Stevens when you're chatting and try not to put down Callie. Alex needs more love, methinks. ^_^

Anyways, great job. Can't wait for whenever the next new episode is supposed to air.

[Kim, Los Angeles]

Okay. OKAY. I just have to say...I don't like Izzie and George together. I really really really want them to JUST be friends. Close friends. Best friends. Friends that are truly there for each other and love each other and support each other no matter what but NOT (I repeat) NOT sleep with each other. And I really really want George and Callie to work. I hate the fact that she cares and loves him so much but just doesn't seem to get it fully in return. I thought it was wrong of Callie to agree to marry him so soon after his father's death but ... well anyway. So, since the marriage thing happened it should happen for a little while longer. Let them live in happyland for a while. I know the truth will come out sooner or later but can you all PLEASE make it a little later. I mean REALLY!

Okay. One last thing. Can Meredith PLEASE PLEASE smile more this season? Good grief, hasn't the poor woman been through enough? Let her show everyone how strong she really is and how great of a surgeon she is. So she gave up in the water. So her mother called her ORDINARY. At what point will she realize that she is anything but ordinary? Stop making her sleep walk through life and start being happy about still having one. And having Derek to boot. Man, that man is in some kinda love! REALLY!

[Katie]

wow. this episode was effin amazing. because i saw Mer/der. and i like mer/der but please don't hurt Derek. because i love that derek kid. he's kinda hot. and by kinda i mean...holy crap. did god create paddy just for my drunken pleasure....actually...my sober pleasure. because even when i'm sober...which i'm not currently...that man is hot.

so thank you for mer/der. And for sex. though...it wouldn't hurt to see mer/der actually doing it. like at prom. cause they actually did it. so...I think it's high time we saw some naked Paddy so taht the next i'm drunk i won't be seeing Sammy having drunken biting sex with a werewolf, i'll be seeing naked Paddy.

my friend created soem drinks tonight...Shonda and Chris...one is called the Bright and Shiny which is one part tequila and five parts Sunny Delight. And then there is the the Izzie Stevens...which is one part vodka and five parts rockstar engery drink in honor of aforementioned Izzie stevens.

i'm a rockstar.

so is Alicia.

Paddy is also a rockstar.

thank you for a briliant episode. i will attempt a coherent post tomorrow even though i'm hungover.

thank you. smart man for Mer/Der sex. You are brilliant.

Love,
Katie

PS. I am in love with you. I've been in love with you forever. I know I'm a little late in saying this but i just want you take your time. you have a choice to make, and when I had a choice to make, I chose wrong. except not really cause i chose Shonda and Allen who is McWriterGod pants...but so are you Chris. You're pretty brilliant. So yeha...good night.

Paddy was hot in his suit. and scrubs and sniffing. and basically everytime else. wow. Paddy is hot. and you guys are geniuses. Thank you and good night. You hot writer you.

P.S.S. I want to write for Grey's. I promise I'm good when I'm sober. Alicia is awesome too. Thereore, you should hire us. Due to our awesomeness and the fact that we are translated into french. that means...we're rockstars Like Izzie Stevens. And Paddy.

PPPS. Or something. I am not drunk. I am tipsey. Love forever and always

Katie.

I think I'm done now. Please more Mer/Der sex. With Der blasting off.

Thanks.

bye.

[Burke Backer]

Well, tonight I will forgive all of you most anything, even the paragraphs and paragraphs about George and Izzie that I really don't care about. Because, Burke and Cristina are back in the same bed snuggling and playing footsie. I would love it if you had added to the five kisses ever that my favorite couple have had in three seasons, but even that doesn't matter so much, because the wedding is back on. They are together, still as perfect for each other as ever. I can't get enough of the looks they exchange, the communication without words that takes place between these two. I love that Burke did not compromise what he knew he needed and what he also knew she needed even if she didn't. I also love that Cristina was still Cristina in the end giving her demands about how the wedding would go down. She may have realized that she loves him more than she dislikes the institution of marriage, but if she is going to do it, she is going to do it her way. You have to love that about her. And he was perfect tonight. He was calm, sure, and determined. I love that he believes he is a better person now then when she first met him, because I think he believes he's better because of her and what they have been through together. They have grown both as individuals and as a couple. Thank you for keeping them faithful. Marlow had me worried for a week. Tonight I am happy enough to make it through the hiatus until the next new episode. I'll just rewatch the final Burketina scene about a thousand times until the next episode. Thank you for not leaving us hanging for weeks worrying about these people we have come to love.

[the one...the only....courtney]

ok...so i just want to say, thanks for the merder sex. i mean it has been a LONG time.

Also, what is up with the izzie/george thing, i really don't like that.....its sooooo awkward!

Anyway, good epi, but not your best. i miss the simplicity of season 1 and the laughs of season 2. This season has been so serious and upsetting. I never feel like rewatching one of the season 3 episodes eventhough i could watch season 2 thousands of times and not be bored. Your on the right track, its getting better but please, bring lightheartedness back to the show!!!! you're almost there, just keep going in the direction you're heading. No more serious/sad!

thanks ....

[Angela T]

Well, thank you for actually mentioning Alex. So many times, bloggers forget, or promise to bring him up at other times and then don't. And, also thanks for saying that there's no sexual or romantic connection between him and the newly named Ava. Ever since Izzie went nutso crazy with Denny an intern can't even *look* at a patient as more than a slab of meat without people speculating that it's Denny redux or some other such thing. I didn't really care about the choosing the face scene. Nice, could take it or leave it. I liked Alex calmly saying he was there to keep Ava's baby alive and then Addison remarking that he watched a fetal monitor with no complaints. And, tell Shonda if her plan was to show Alex progressing towards an interest in the obstetrics field only to bring him back to plastics, it's a crummy plan. You might as well have just had him stay disinterested or just had one episode where he learns a Very Special Lesson, but you didn't do that, and you keep hinting that he's interested, so to back away doesn't make sense.

I thought Mark was funny, and enjoyed him impressing the board members by not doing any work. I especially liked that he wasn't treating Meredith like a China doll.

And, when is Burke going to have to make some changes? It's all about Christina's shortcomings, but Burke isn't a paragon of perfection, for all his talk about how he hopes he's grown. I think he's regressed. Ever since the tremor thing, he's judgmental and overbearing. I was shocked that he didn't have a snit over Christina's talk of what kind of wedding she wanted.

I'm personally not angry about the George/Izzie sex. I feel bad for Callie. I feel Izzie has gone downhill since last season's finale. George was stupid. I don't think it was inevitable, as it seems to be implied. Not all friends have to have intense feelings that lead to sex. Oh, and is that why Alex and Meredith never exchange two words to *each other*? Because that would mean they had to have sex? Don't waste the idea of taking Alex out of his cardboard box, or wherever you refuse to say he was living, and putting him in the same house with Meredith. They were friends and I'd like to see a scene with them exchanging a few sentences. Pass that on to the other writers.

(apologies if this posts more than once)

[Maida]

You guys make me crazy, which is why Grey's is the only show on television that I can tell you the day and time it airs. If I'm not home, I tape it. I'm still getting my husband caught up (he was in Iraq for a year), but he's sucked in too. Thank you for making real, human characters.

[belinda]

you know, i'm starting to get how izzie and george can happen. and you know, i'm starting to like it. actually, i'm not that all surprised. because i forget which episode i ended up watching on the dvds, but someone mentioned on the commentaries that they would hook up eventually. i look forward to seeing these "plans" carry out.

i hope burktina are going to be alright.

[Cristiano]

You're all slowly ruining the show you know. What started out as an amazing hour of tv is fast becoming a joke. The direction the show is taking is ridiculously disgusting.
George and Izzie is nothing but incestuous...there's nothing there. you people are trying to create a shock value. it's only creating hatred towards the show. I had to look away and shield my eyes at the pathetic attempts to make me like the couple. Watching a love scene between two people i considered to have a sibling type of relationship is not good tv.
Addisson is the only reason this show is worth watching (along with bailey...and neither is getting any screentime now) Her one scene at the door with Alex stole the show....you people have lost the plot. An hour of Addie standing around seattle grace interacting with Bailey, Alex, Sloan and Callie is worth more than that silly attempt at a romance between George and Izzie.
What kind of message are you sending out anyway? That blonde thin women will always win against curvy brunettes? even if marriage vows are involved? I thought your show was supposed to promote diversity. All in all you could say i'm more than a little dissapointed...shame.

[Danielle]

the closet scene was the most amazing thing i have ever seen on this show...

[Lindsay]

So, even though I have the flu on my 22nd birthday on the 22nd of the March, I'm still really excited about the episode tonight, so thanks for my birthday present :)

[Jennifer]

Oh what an amazing episode! I thought that I was against the whole George and Izzie hookup, but I have jumped on board and want to see what happens with them. I can't believe I am even saying this, but that episode changed my opinion, and their chemistry was amazing. I just don't want Callie to be hurt because I Love her, but that has to happen I suppose. I can't wait to see what happens, good job everyone at Grey's!!!!!

[Beloved]

this eposie gave me some hope that maybe...just maybe you will not send of Callie to the 'spin off' I mean..I thought in the beginning that Izzy and Geroge would be cute...but I really like Callie...she knows what she wants and she figths for it...it is a sence of 'norm' in a pool of tragidy..George needs a 'good' woman..not sayign Izzy isn't..but Callie has given George 'balls'...he stands up for himself....so you put him with Izzy and he will revert back to the spinless cute George we know...and you all do have a habit of ripping marriges apart..is there ever going to be one that will freaking last? or not end by infidelity...so for the love of God,or whomever you all worship...fix this lol.

[rachel]

amazing, simply amazing