Grey's Anatomy has returned for its 22nd season, and the premiere episode delivered a devastating blow to fans. The episode, which aired on ABC in the US and is available on Disney+ in the UK, confirmed the death of Dr Monica Beltran, played by Natalie Morales.
Monica, a paediatric surgeon, was one of six characters left in peril after a gas explosion at the end of season 21. The blast also endangered Richard Webber, Miranda Bailey, Atticus 'Link' Lincoln, Lucas Adams, and Jules Millin. Initially, Monica appeared to have only a broken pelvis, but she was later crushed under operating light equipment while guiding Jules through a solo procedure on a child. Despite the efforts of the fire crew, she succumbed to her injuries.
Fans took to social media to express their grief, with one writing: 'SHE DESERVED SO MUCH BETTER,' and another saying: 'Do not expect me to ever get over this.' A third lamented: 'I have so much to say about this but I fear I can't stop crying.'
Natalie Morales first appeared as Monica in season 20 as a guest star, before becoming a recurring cast member in season 21. Showrunner Meg Marinis told The Hollywood Reporter that killing Monica was a difficult decision, but they 'couldn't save everybody.' She added: 'I wanted to see someone die selflessly saving someone else's life... It really speaks to the kind of character Monica was.'
Grey's Anatomy season 22 consists of 18 episodes, airing weekly. In the US, new episodes air on Thursdays at 10/9c on ABC and stream the next day on Hulu. UK and international viewers can watch on Disney+ every Friday.
