(S04E04) “Life During Wartime”

It appears as if the writers and producers of Grey’s Anatomy are looking to stir things up a bit. Besides the normal high drama and romance infused plot twists, two new characters have also been introduced to the show. As I previously called it, Journeyman’s Kevin McKidd has found a home at Seattle Grace. Already causing quite a stir, ex-Iraq trauma soldier Major Long made enemies with just about every member of PETA by throwing several pigs to the surgical table in tonight’s episode. ABC was quick to point out that no actual animals were harmed, but oh if they had been, I’m sure Izzie wouldn’t have been the only one upset.

Having first pegged Long as a potential love interest for Cristina I’m now beginning to wonder if that storyline is more meant for her new intern Ryan or if you’d prefer, 4.2. Now I know, there hasn’t been any signs of flirting, interesting or really any chemistry whatsoever between the two, but if we’ve learned anything about character entrances in Grey’s it’s that someone who gets their fair share of camera time with only a limited role on screen, is about to bloom into one of the shows better known.

Besides the Ryan’s attention grabbing performance, another, much younger performer proved herself as a TV star. Hero’s Adair Tishler shown in her brief few minutes on screen as the patient who’s life seemed destined to end. As an actress who once played young Carrie Bradshaw in Sex in the City, obviously the writers couldn’t let that happen. This truly loved child must be saved, but, of course, not without a lot of drama, a medical break-through and a surgical break-down throw in for good measure.

Mostly importantly, tonight’s episode brought a lot of hot topic issues to the surface. Just in time for the elections if you ask me. And good for them, we can all retire from the TV screen with opinions of homosexual realtionships, wartime psychology and animal rights in mind. The producers of Grey’s did more tonight then offer entertainment with the chance of escapism, they also invited you to take the underlying subplots a step further. Ponder, discuss and explore at your own speed, but remember Tuesday’s the big day to state what’s important to you. No matter what you decide, don’t miss your chance.