The longest-running primetime medical drama Grey’s Anatomy has been airing for 22 seasons now. Fans who were there during the first years claim the show went downhill after Cristina’s (Sandra Oh) exit or Derek’s (Patrick Dempsey) death. Even with the new batch of interns taking the spotlight, newer fans see the latest seasons as underwhelming at best. Arguments can be made with respect to the show’s quality over time, but the truth is newer seasons have featured notable highlights.

Ever since Krista Vernoff returned to join Shonda Rhimes as co-showrunner in Season 14, Grey’s Anatomy went through a reinvention that produced thoroughly engaging storylines. But there’s a specific point in which the show produced one of the best seasons of its modern era. In Season 17, Grey Sloan Memorial had to face head-on the COVID-19 pandemic. Though at the time, it might have hit too close to home, it gave Grey’s Anatomy a new meaning and purpose in the ever-changing landscape of medical TV dramas.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Felt Relevant Once Again in Season 17

Image via ABC

The COVID-19 pandemic turned the world upside down. Shutting everything down to prevent the spread of this new and deadly disease, humanity had to adapt to face this new reality. In entertainment, this meant shutting down productions of movies and TV shows – thus paralyzing the industry for the foreseeable future. When Grey’s Anatomy was able to resume production, the big questions of what the doctors of Grey Sloan should do and how they should proceed were answered swiftly – tackle the pandemic head-on.

By covering this delicate topic, Season 17 of Grey’s Anatomy made the show feel relevant once again. Whereas there was a long-standing tradition of showcasing catastrophe episodes every year, the entirety of Season 17 covered a real and global crisis that the doctors seemed powerless to face. The stakes felt real once again, as the hospital had to adapt to new sanitary measures, while trying to keep its patients and staff safe. Still, when the topic was gloomy, the later episodes of the season managed to end on a high note, flashing forward to the introduction of the vaccines and finally being able to recover the sense of normalcy we live with today.

Meredith’s Beach Featured the Return of Several ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Fan-Favorites

Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) will never be exempt from catastrophes in her life. Whether personal or professional, she has always been on the brink of figurative or literal death. In Season 17, she was one of the early cases of COVID-19 the hospital had to treat. This brought the controversial beach into the show’s narrative. Love it or hate it, this metaphysical space was an escape from the dark reality both the audience and the hospital were facing at the time. This became our safe space – a maskless and bright place where happy reunions simply happened.

Thus, Season 17 featured fan-favorite and long-awaited returns in one of the few ways that made sense in the show’s narrative. This was the precise moment to bring back Chyler Leigh’s Lexie for one final heartfelt chat with her sister. Lexie’s comeback also brought Eric Dane’s Mark, as a sign that they had found a happy ending after all. T.R. Knight’s George strolled by to talk about how his death affected Meredith’s life. Last, but not least, Meredith saw Derek once again at this fateful moment. Seeing the power couple reunited was a tender callback to their better times. All of them encourage Meredith to keep fighting and return to her family. And though they were constructs of her own comatose mind, their appearances felt like a hug in the direst of times.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Season 17 Features the Last Impactful Deaths the Show Has Seen

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Grey’s Anatomy’s tradition of featuring impactful deaths practically stopped with Season 17. It makes sense, considering it’d be hard to top their emotional punch. The first was Elena Bailey (Bianca F. Taylor), Miranda’s (Chandra Wilson) mother. After becoming infected with COVID-19 at her nursing home, Elena’s chances of survival were minimal, because the elderly were at higher risk. Grey’s Anatomy faithfully depicted the frustrating protocols that this catastrophe brought forth. The people who represented our support system were fated to die in isolation during this harrowing time. By showing this through Miranda’s resignation and Elena’s final moments, the series honored the victims of the pandemic.

Related

The 15 Most Hated ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Characters, Ranked

While these doctors saved lives, they also made some poor decisions.

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The second victim that this season claimed was Giacomo Gianniotti’s Andrew DeLuca. He died a hero, because he was responsible for the apprehension of a human trafficker, and his goodbye was one of the most heartfelt and heartbreaking moments in the modern era of Grey’s Anatomy. Meeting Meredith at her beach, he thanked her for the time they shared and for pushing him to get to know himself. The ambivalence of having to “choose” between life and death is elevated by DeLuca’s reunion with his mother. His bittersweet farewell represents an ideal welcome to the afterlife – and not everyone has gotten this courtesy in Grey’s Anatomy.

In retrospect, Season 17 of Grey’s Anatomy has quietly become one of the best of its modern era. More recent outings have struggled to recapture the emotional impact that this season had. With Pompeo’s departure as a regular in Season 19, this could also be considered the last time Meredith was front-and-center as the main focus of the show. Since the series is nowhere near its end, hopefully it will recapture this gut-wrenching feeling once again.

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Release Date

March 27, 2005

Directors

Rob Corn, Kevin McKidd, Debbie Allen, Chandra Wilson, Allison Liddi-Brown, Jeannot Szwarc, Tony Phelan

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Writers

Shonda Rhimes, Julie Wong, Jen Klein, Tameson Duffy, Meg Marinis

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  Chandra Wilson

  Dr. Miranda Bailey

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Seahawks Vs. Patriots
Big Game WAGs

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February 8, 2026
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Senator Mark Kelly
No One Can Hear You Fart in Space!!!

Published
February 8, 2026
1:00 AM PST

After hugely positive first responses arrived earlier this week, Chris Hemsworth fans look set for a huge treat when his new heist thriller Crime 101 debuts next week. Starring Hemsworth and his MCU mate Mark Ruffalo, Crime 101 is now one of the most anticipated movies of the month, with one critic calling it “the kind of classy heist thriller we don’t see much of these days,” and another saying it’s “slickly crafted, tightly written, and filled to the brim with compelling characters and a moody, immersive LA atmosphere.”

As fans wait for Hemsworth’s latest big hit, many are heading back into his catalog and checking out one of his most divisive movies: Blackhat. Directed by Michael Mann — whose magnum opus Heat is proving a popular point of comparison with the aforementioned Crime 101 — Blackhat stars Hemsworth alongside Oscar-winner Viola Davis, Tang Wei, and Mindhunter‘s Holt McCallany. Written by Morgan Davis Foehl, the film stars Hemsworth as convicted hacker Nick Hathaway, who is offered clemency to help hunt down a dangerous cybercriminal.

At the time of writing, Blackhat is one of the 10 most-streamed movies on HBO Max worldwide. The action thriller joins two of the Best Picture favorites at the upcoming Academy Awards in the current top ten, with Paul Thomas Anderson‘s masterpiece, One Battle After Another, in third and director Ryan Coogler‘s beloved vampire flick, Sinners, at the top of the charts. A synopsis for Blackhat reads:

“After a Hong Kong nuclear plant and the Mercantile Trade Exchange in Chicago are hacked by unknown perpetrators, a federal agent proposes that the FBI work with China to find the cyber-criminals. The leader of the Chinese team, Chen Dawai, insists that convicted hacker Nick Hathaway be released from prison to help with the investigation. As Nick and his comrades chase their quarry, it becomes evident that the hackers have a sinister motive for their actions.”

‘Blackhat’ Was a Huge Box Office Bomb

Against a reported production budget of $70 million, Blackhat‘s 2015 theatrical run was an enormous disaster as it bowed out with just $19.6 million worldwide. Split between a domestic haul of $8 million and a further $11.6 million from overseas markets, Blackhat hugely disappointed, no doubt thanks to consistently terrible critical reception. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the movie earned just 33% from critics, with the consensus reading, “Thematically timely but dramatically inert, Blackhat strands Chris Hemsworth in a muddled misfire from director Michael Mann.”

Stay tuned to Collider for the latest streaming stories.

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Release Date

January 16, 2015

Runtime

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133 minutes

Director

Michael Mann

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Writers

Morgan Davis Foehl

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Producers

Jon Jashni

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Cozy winter sweaters have the uncanny ability to go from elevated and stylish online to frumpy as soon as you try them on. To reduce the risk of delivering grandpa-level ‘chic,’ we found designer-style sweaters that nail cold-weather style without bulky silhouettes . . . and they’re all available on Amazon.

Functional and fashionable, these 15 warm sweaters have relaxed-fit silhouettes that still flatter, offering a middle ground between curve-hugging styles that squish and ill-fitting picks with shapeless designs. From off-the-shoulder pullovers to classy mock-neck options, these sweaters on Amazon have luxe-looking appeal without a triple-digit price tag. Get ready to build your winter-to-spring wardrobe with these flattering knit sweaters, starting at just $13.

15 Designer-Looking Knits to Replace Frumpy Sweaters

1. Our Favorite: This cozy V-neck is a versatile pick that fashionistas will inevitably pair with their favorite closet staples. With a ribbed detail on the neckline and hem, it has a sophisticated touch we appreciate.

2. Runner Up: The crochet design on this off-the-shoulder sweater resembles something you’d find on a beachside boutique. You won’t regret adding this find to your lineup while it’s on sale for just $20!

3. Instant Switch Up: Whether you’re wearing a mini skirt or loose-fitting jeans, this mock-neck sweater offers just the right amount of class. The lightweight find falls below the waist, so you can tuck it in comfortably, if that’s your style.

4. Flirty Fringe: If you’re tired of boring styles with minimal accents, this V-neck sweater is just for you. Frilly ruffles down the neckline and sleeves add a touch of romance.

5. Sweet Texture: The Swiss dot detail on this cozy sweater is a standout feature that’s sure to earn you compliments. The smocked cuff on the sleeve is another dreamy feature that we can’t help but swoon over.

Related: Just In! 16 Casual-Chic Blouses That Are Bound to Go Viral Before Spring

Fashion emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye. Thankfully, Amazon is always dropping brand-new pieces for endless solutions to style dilemmas. Most recently, the e-tailer just released cozy short-sleeve blouses that fashionistas won’t hesitate to shop. Starting at just $8, we found versatile options for every occasion (yes, even formal ones!). From slimming […]

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6. Classic Find: If you’re tired of cable-knit sweaters, look to this fitted option for relief. With a subtle V-neck detail, you’ll feel comfortable wearing it from the office to after-hours work socials.

7. Lightweight Look: Need an elevated style you can transition into spring? This timeless V-neck top is light and feels great on the skin, thanks to its ultra-soft fabric that feels like cozy yarn.

8. Tied Up: The tie-front detail makes this knit sweater stand out to Us. Not only does it offer warmth, but it also slims and cinches at the midsection.

9. Coastal Cutie: If you’re a fan of the fisherman knit stitch, you’ll love the coastal-inspired detail on this Amazon crewneck sweater.

10. Fabulous Find: The cashmere-like fabric on this elevated crewneck makes it look like something three times the price. Thankfully, it’s just $40 right now.

11. Flattering Silhouette: The button-down detail and flowy silhouette on this lightweight top makes it look super sophisticated. No frumpy materials here!

12. Posh Sophistication: Whether you’re spending the weekend at a country club or going to a play date, you’ll look equal parts polished and sporty in this short-sleeve polo sweater.

13. Transitional Pick: The subtle V-neck detail on this short-sleeve sweater adds a semi preppy appeal. Due to the versatile design, we envision styling the top with wide-leg jeans and pointed-toe boots for an elevated flair.

14. Elevated Basic: Love the comfort of casual sweatshirts? This crewneck sweater features soft fabric and a flattering silhouette, delivering the go-to look with an elevated twist.

15. Last but Not Least: If you ask Us, black turtlenecks are the fashion gift that keeps on giving. With endless versatility and style, you’ll be able to wear this number to business meetings layered under a blazer or with a cozy cardigan and leggings on more casual days.

Related: I’m a Fashion Editor — 14 Cashmere-Blend Knits That Nail the Luxe Look

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Despite the glamorous job title, most fashion editors are far from millionaires. This makes my line of work extra tricky. While I want to look stylish and rock high-end labels, sacrificing an entire paycheck on clothes isn’t the smartest move. That’s why I pay close attention to details like material. Rather than splurging on full […]