Here’s the episode we’ve all been waiting for.  Not only does Izzie Stevens return to Seattle Grace Mercy West, Cristina is finally, finally introduced to her next cardio God.  Does ‘New History’ live up to the hype of Grey’s Anatomy?

Teddy

I will say this: Teddy is far more likable than I imagined.  Her character introduction works because she’s not like anyone else.  She’s not cold and precise like Burke and Hahn.  She’s not a sunny blond like Arizona and Izzie, and while this may seem like an insult to actress Kim Raver, Teddy not one of those hot doctors that oozes sex like Callie or Addison.  In short, she’s Teddy, an amalgamation of her past that, hopefully, we get more glimpses of in the future.  Her personality is believable and doesn’t fall on any extremes like so many of our dark and twisty doctors.  Even better, her shining moment occurs when the least forgivable person in the hospital (Cristina) actually accepts her for who she is.

While it is still too early to judge the dynamic between Teddy and Owen, she is a promising replacement for the vacancy of a cardiothorasic attending.

The Man Behind the Curtain

‘New History’ also takes a new stance with a character who’s mostly been reactionary this season.  The Chief is a dominant pillar of the show that rarely receives his own moment, but this episodes shines a new light on his erratic behaviors as of late.  When it is revealed that he’s drinking again, the moment is revelatory yet needs little elaboration.  While it’s easy to forget, it’s time to look at the Chief as human once again.  It will be interesting to see the journey he takes with Meredith (the only one who knows this) to get back on his feet.

The episode fully reflect its title.  With so much history to ponder and ‘New History’ to explore, Grey’s Anatomy is definitely stepping into new territory this season.

Rating: 9.1/10

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