Why does Cristina Yang leave GREY’s?

Cristina Yang leaves Grey’s Anatomy after being offered the position of Head of Cardiothoracic Surgery at a hospital in Zurich, Switzerland, a role previously held by her former fiancé Preston Burke, marking a significant career advancement and a new chapter in her life. This departure occurs at the end of Season 10, allowing Cristina to pursue new opportunities and challenges, both personally and professionally, outside of her long-standing role at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.

About Cristina Yang’s Departure

Cristina Yang, played by Sandra Oh, was a central character in Grey’s Anatomy for ten seasons, known for her competitive spirit, exceptional surgical skills, and complex personal relationships. Her decision to leave Seattle and her friends behind is a pivotal moment in the series, reflecting her growth and the evolving priorities in her life.

FAQs About Cristina Yang and Grey’s Anatomy

General FAQs

1. Why was Cristina written out of Grey’s Anatomy? Cristina was written out after the show’s 10th season to allow Sandra Oh to pursue other projects, marking a planned departure after her ten-year commitment to the series.
2. What happens to Cristina after she leaves Grey’s Anatomy? After leaving Grey’s Anatomy, Cristina moves to Zurich to take on a new role, starting a new chapter in her career and personal life.
3. Does Cristina attend Derek’s funeral? Although Cristina does not physically appear at Derek’s funeral due to Sandra Oh’s departure from the series, her presence is acknowledged, indicating she was there to pay her respects.

Character Relationships and Developments

4. Who does Cristina Yang end up with? After various relationships throughout the series, Cristina’s last significant relationship is with Owen Hunt, though they eventually part ways, allowing Cristina to focus on her career and personal growth.
5. What happens to Meredith after Cristina leaves? Following Cristina’s departure, Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo, undergoes significant personal and professional changes, including finding new support systems and facing challenges in her career and family life.
6. Why did Derek leave Grey’s Anatomy? Derek Shepherd, played by Patrick Dempsey, left the series after his character’s death, which was a storyline decision made to advance the plot and impact the characters, particularly Meredith.

Plot Twists and Turns

7. Did Addison go to Derek’s funeral? While Addison Montgomery, played by Kate Walsh, does not physically attend Derek’s funeral, it is mentioned that she was in contact with the characters, showing her connection to the group despite her physical absence.
8. Who becomes Meredith’s person after Cristina leaves? After Cristina’s departure, Alex Karev steps up to become a significant support figure for Meredith, showcasing the evolution of their friendship.
9. What happened to Alex Karev? Alex leaves Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital to reunite with Izzie Stevens and their twin sons, marking a new beginning for his character and a significant plot point in the series.

Character Backstories and Conditions

10. What disorder does Cristina Yang have? Cristina Yang experiences brief reactive psychosis, a condition that arises after a traumatic event, reflecting the show’s realistic portrayal of mental health challenges faced by its characters.
11. Does Cristina Yang have a disability? Cristina is revealed to have dyslexia, which she was diagnosed with at a young age, showcasing her overcoming challenges and achieving success despite her condition.

Significant Events and Departures

12. Why does Cristina quit her job initially? Cristina quits her job due to severe PTSD and an inability to perform her duties correctly, highlighting the show’s exploration of the psychological impact of traumatic events on medical professionals.
13. Does Meredith find love after Derek? Meredith finds love again with Will Thorpe, among others, as she navigates her life and career after Derek’s death, illustrating her growth and ability to find happiness again.
14. Why does Meredith go to jail? Meredith is sentenced to jail for insurance fraud, committed to help a patient, showcasing her willingness to challenge the system and help those in need, even if it means personal risk.

Behind the Scenes and Real-Life Connections

15. Are Patrick Dempsey and Ellen Pompeo friends in real life? While Patrick Dempsey and Ellen Pompeo played iconic roles together, they have not remained in close contact since his departure from the show, though they have expressed mutual respect and appreciation for their time working together on Grey’s Anatomy.