After Kate Walsh returned to Grey’s Anatomy, viewers noticed a potential continuity error involving Addison.
During Walsh’s guest appearance in the most recent episode, Addison and Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) were seen bonding over a plate of cookies. But while Amelia, who is now sober, paired that with a glass of milk, Addison opted for wine.
“Quick question for the Greys Anatomy writers,” read a post from a fan on X. “Why did you bring Addison back in season 18 and have her tell us she was struggling with alcohol, only to show her casually drinking WINE in season 22?”
Some social media users replied that they were just as confused about whether Addison had issues with alcohol after seeing her with wine. Others, however, pointed out that Addison never claimed she was sober.
“She’s not an alcoholic though or claimed to be. Everyone drank a lot during quarantine,” a response noted. “Also most sober people are comfortable with other people drinking around them … they do still go to parties and bars and out to eat with family.”
The biggest issue for some though was Addison drinking in front of Amelia after helping her get sober. “THEEEE person she coordinated an intervention for and supported throughout her ups and downs with sobriety,” read a reply.
Elsewhere in the episode, Addison paid a visit to Amelia to assist with a pregnant patient who was suffering from a tumor that affected her sight. In an effort to get Amelia to scrub back in, Addison revealed that her marriage to husband Jake (Benjamin Bratt) might be over.
Addison refused to share any more details about their issues, but Amelia eventually convinced her to open up. Addison said Jake was forcing her to choose between their marriage and her career — and she chose the latter.
Addison and Amelia talked over her options before realizing the relationship likely couldn’t be saved. They ended the episode bonding at Amelia’s apartment, but it remains to be seen what Addison will do about her personal life.
“There’s always hope!” Walsh, 58, told Variety. “Look, what she’s doing is so radically different, and everything’s changed so much. I think it’d be really interesting to actually see that transpire or see what comes of it.”
Walsh subsequently defended the story line despite the backlash.
“I really loved [this breakup story line]. I was like, ‘She should be in jeopardy,’” Walsh added. “My thing is, I love that she’s doing all these things and coming back. There’s this sort of desperation, but how does that manifest in her life for real? How does it manifest at work? What does the clinic look like? Is Oceanside still [around]? What’s happening?”
She continued: “[I want] to have a little catch up and to actually see the ramifications of the choices she’s making and the sacrifices she’s making. I think a lot of people can relate to that.”
Grey’s Anatomy airs on ABC Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET before streaming the next day on Hulu.
