Shonda Rhimes recently opened up about one of the most profound losses in Grey’s Anatomy, revealing that the impact of Denny Duquette’s (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) death still resonates with her years after the event. The long-standing ABC medical series has gained notoriety for its gut-wrenching plot twists, with numerous character deaths leaving indelible marks on both the audience and the cast alike. Iconic fatalities, such as those of Patrick Dempsey’s Derek, Scott Foley’s Henry, James Remar’s Jimmy, and Giacomo Gianniotti’s DeLuca, are etched into viewers’ memories.
During a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Rhimes revealed the profound emotional toll that writing Denny’s death took on her. She shared that she became so emotionally invested in his storyline that filming the scenes was a struggle; she often found herself in tears on and off set. Rhimes detailed how the trajectory of Denny’s character was established early in the show’s progression, stating, “It was one of the first times that we had a board where […] I was saying, ‘We’re going to meet this guy who’s dying young.'” Below, she elaborated on the unforgettable experience:
I don’t think I’ve ever gotten over killing Denny, ever. I cried when he died. Literally, I cried when they were shooting it. I couldn’t be on the stage. I cried beforehand. I knew it was the story, and it was one of the first times that we had had a board where, at the beginning of the season, I was saying, “We’re going to meet this guy who’s dying young.”
And then, at the end of the season, we had on the board, it said, “Dying young guy dies young.”And I was like, “And that’s what we’re doing.”And when we got to dying young guy dies young, I was like, “Oh my God, it’s going to have to happen.”Because I loved his relationship with Izzie. I thought it was great.
The Significance of Denny’s Death in Grey’s Anatomy
Establishing a Precedent for Future Storylines
Denny’s character arc, particularly in season 2, served as a crucial turning point in Grey’s Anatomy, creating one of the most heart-wrenching narratives during the show’s extensive history. His tragic end helped to shape the series’ identity, underscoring its commitment to deliver poignant emotional journeys. This pivotal moment prepared viewers for subsequent heartache involving other cherished characters throughout the series.
As Denny navigated life as a heart transplant patient, he established a deep connection with Izzie, prompting a passionate romance that led her to take extraordinary risks in an effort to save him. Following his heartfelt marriage proposal in “17 Seconds,” hope flickered for their relationship—only to be extinguished by tragedy during the season finale when Denny suffered a fatal stroke. His death not only impacted the audience but significantly transformed Izzie’s character arc.
In the aftermath, Izzie’s resignation from the hospital in season 3 was a direct response to her grief. Although she later returned in an attempt to heal, Denny’s memory continued to loom large, emerging in haunting visions when Izzie faced her own cancer diagnosis. Rhimes’ reflections indicate that Denny’s demise had a profound effect not only on the viewers but also on those involved in the show’s production. Her lingering emotional connection to his storyline illustrates its lasting weight nearly two decades later.
Insights on the Effect of Denny’s Death
Unforgettable Heartbreak in Grey’s Anatomy
Even as Grey’s Anatomy has progressed into its 22nd season, Denny’s passing remains one of the most heart-rending instances in the show’s legacy. Clearly, although this loss deeply affected Rhimes, it also served a broader narrative purpose. His death demonstrated the show’s willingness to delve into raw emotional terrain involving beloved characters, showcasing the capacity for storytelling that intertwines love, loss, and high-stakes drama.
New episodes of Grey’s Anatomy Season 21 premiere Thursdays at 10 p.m. EST on ABC.
Source: EW