For over 20 seasons, Grey’s Anatomy has tugged at the emotions of millions who watch as surgeon Meredith Grey and her colleagues face various medical and personal challenges. With over 430 episodes, it is the longest-running primetime medical drama, reflecting its captivating plot twists and dramatic scenarios unfolding at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital.
The initial seasons are particularly popular, largely due to the chemistry among the original five interns. However, Grey’s Anatomy offers much more beyond the early days of Meredith, George, Cristina, Alex, and Izzie, with many later seasons also deserving attention. We’ve reviewed the show’s rich history, analyzing memorable cliffhangers and poignant character exits to rate all 20 seasons based on standout episodes, cast performances, and season finales.
Here is the ranking of every season of Grey’s Anatomy:
20. Season 11
This season marked the first without Cristina Yang, and the unexpected death of Derek Shepherd before the finale was a letdown for fans. Despite Meredith and Derek’s potentially defining relationship arcs unraveling beforehand, the season didn’t recover after Derek’s untimely demise.
19. Season 14
In this season, Amelia Shepherd’s storyline takes a surprising turn when she learns about a long-standing brain tumor affecting her decisions. The departure of established characters Arizona Robbins and April Kepner left many storylines unresolved, earning this season a low rank.
18. Season 12
While it includes standout episodes such as “The Sound of Silence,” which features a vulnerable Meredith struggling after a traumatic event, Season 12 is mainly forgettable and sees Callie caught up in a complex custody battle.
17. Season 13
This season features Meredith in a relationship with Nathan Riggs, causing disappointment due to its quick turnaround. However, fans of Jackson and April can appreciate their discussions about parenthood following the birth of their daughter.
16. Season 16
Following a series of events that leads to Meredith, Alex, and Richard being fired, the focus shifts to Amelia and Link’s relationship and Jo’s personal growth. However, the abrupt exit of Alex detracted from the overall experience of the season.
15. Season 20
The latest season focuses on a new group of residents while Meredith relocates to Boston for vital research, setting up intriguing storylines but only featuring her for part of the season.
14. Season 19
Season 19 introduces an engaging new set of residents and shows strong connections, but it also highlights Meredith’s transition as she leaves Seattle, potentially impacting viewers.
13. Season 17
The COVID-19 pandemic heavily influences this season, detailing Meredith’s struggle with the virus while weaving in dream sequences with familiar faces. The return of beloved characters provided a heartwarming touch amid the turmoil.
12. Season 4
The interns become residents in this season, which also features the introduction of Meredith’s half-sister Lexie and culminates in memorable moments of love, longing, and commitment, though it lacks the magic of the original interns’ chemistry.
11. Season 15
Here, a love triangle involving Meredith captures attention, along with Jo’s profound journey of self-discovery, making this season stand out amidst the series’ later years.
10. Season 6
Challenging events shift the dynamic among the original group of interns as they face new hurdles, culminating in a gripping two-part finale involving a tragic shooting in the hospital.
9. Season 18
If fans were skeptical of how a recent season ranked so high, the return of Nick Marsh and the romantic developments with Meredith create a captivating narrative, along with Amelia’s exploration of her personal life.
8. Season 8
A strong season featuring a mix of established and new characters, it is remembered for emotional moments, high-stakes episodes, and a shocking plane crash that had lasting repercussions.
7. Season 9
The fallout from the previous season’s crash looms over the characters as they navigate personal challenges, relationships, and hospital issues, making it a pivotal moment in the series.
6. Season 7
Dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic shooting, this season delves into the characters’ emotional journeys while introducing memorable, music-infused moments.
5. Season 10
As Meredith and Cristina confront pivotal life decisions, their relationship faces tension, culminating in a heartfelt farewell and showcasing significant moments for Jackson and April.
4. Season 1
The inaugural season features strong character chemistry, captivating patient stories, and ends with a shocking twist as new dynamics are introduced.
3. Season 3
Following the original interns, this season brings emotional upheavals and character growth, highlighted by Izzie’s struggle with grief and dramatic events shaping their futures.
2. Season 5
The shocking finale revealing George’s fate became a landmark moment, alongside pivotal relationship developments and emotional high points that set up later story arcs.
1. Season 2
Topping the rankings, Season 2 includes the most memorable episodes, exceptional guest appearances, and significant character introductions, showcasing the series’ escalating dramatic tension and emotional stakes.