‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Kevin McKidd Opens Up About Directing His Own Exit After 18 Seasons: “It Felt Really Empowering”

Grey’s Anatomy is saying goodbye to two familiar faces as Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver step away from the long-running ABC drama following the Season 22 finale.

The emotional episode marked the exit of Owen Hunt and Teddy Altman from Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital as the couple decided to begin a new chapter in Paris with their children. The finale also carried extra meaning for McKidd because he directed the episode himself while also appearing on screen.

Speaking about the experience, McKidd said directing the finale during his final season felt special and personal after spending nearly two decades on the series. He shared that taking charge behind the camera during such an important episode gave him “a real sense of ownership” and described the experience by saying, “It felt really empowering.”

The actor explained that the opportunity first came from longtime Grey’s Anatomy producer and director Debbie Allen, who asked him early in the season to direct the finale. At that point, he did not yet know it would also become his farewell episode.

McKidd revealed that the finale became one of the biggest productions the show has attempted in years. A major bridge collapse sequence plays a central role in the episode and required a massive set build and complicated filming schedule. According to the actor, the production team spent weeks preparing the set and several days filling a huge water tank used during filming.

In the episode, Owen survives after his car goes over the edge during the bridge disaster. He then helps rescue injured victims before eventually returning to the hospital. The near-death moment pushes the character to rethink his future and finally support Teddy’s career move to Paris.

McKidd said the story was designed to complete Owen’s emotional journey after years of trauma connected to his military past. He explained that Owen had always carried guilt from losing members of his platoon during his time in Iraq, and the finale allowed the character to finally find peace by saving another family in danger.

Reflecting on Owen and Teddy’s relationship, McKidd said the couple realized they still needed each other after spending much of the season struggling to reconnect. He added that Owen finally learned to support Teddy’s goals instead of always taking control of their future together.

Outside of the show, McKidd said he already moved quickly into new projects after wrapping Grey’s Anatomy. He traveled to Scotland immediately after filming the finale to work on the upcoming Highlander reboot. He also confirmed he will soon begin filming a psychological thriller series called The Only Suspect in London.

The actor also spoke about his growing interest in producing through his company, Ferryman Films. According to McKidd, the company currently has multiple projects in development with studios including Disney, the BBC, and Amazon.

Even though his time as a series regular has ended, McKidd made it clear he is not fully closing the door on Grey’s Anatomy. He said he plans to return to direct future episodes and would also be open to appearing again as Owen if the opportunity comes up.

McKidd also reflected on the long success of Grey’s Anatomy and admitted there were years when cast members watched streaming platforms explode while they quietly continued making network television. But now, he said, the show’s longevity proves how rare and successful the series truly is. He called the show a huge blessing in his life and said he will always be grateful for everything it gave him.

Kevin McKidd leaving Grey’s Anatomy feels like the end of an important era for the show. Owen Hunt became one of the series’ biggest characters over the years, and it seems fitting that McKidd got the chance to direct his own farewell episode. The fact that he still wants to come back in the future also leaves the door open for fans who are not ready to fully say goodbye. What do you think about Kevin McKidd and Kim Raver leaving Grey’s Anatomy? Do you think Owen and Teddy got the right ending? Share your thoughts in the comments.