NCIS is known for balancing gripping criminal cases with emotionally charged personal stories. One such heartbreaking moment was the death of Breena Palmer, played by Michelle Pierce. Breena, the beloved wife of Dr. Jimmy Palmer, debuted in Season 7, leaving a lasting impact before her tragic storyline unfolded in Season 18.
Breena’s death in NCIS Season 18 was revealed through Jimmy Palmer’s emotional breakdown. The show depicted her passing as a result of COVID-19 complications, reflecting the harsh realities of the pandemic.
The Tragedy of Breena’s Death
In Season 18, Jimmy Palmer reveals that his wife, Breena, died due to COVID-19 complications during the pandemic. Her passing is revealed in the episode “The First Day,” where Jimmy struggles to stay positive despite his devastating loss. Notably, Breena’s death occurs off-screen, adding a layer of surprise for viewers.
Jimmy shares that he was unable to see Breena before her death due to pandemic restrictions. Their only interactions were through video calls, making the loss even more painful. In a heart-wrenching moment, Jimmy confesses his emotions to Gibbs, revealing his difficulty in even uttering the word “COVID-19.”
Life After Breena’s Passing
Breena’s death left Jimmy as a single parent to their daughter, Victoria. To manage his new responsibilities, he asks his mother to move in. Despite his personal struggles, Jimmy remains dedicated to his role as Chief Medical Examiner, balancing his grief with his duties.
Breena and Jimmy Palmer (Image via Getty)
Breena’s Return in a Dream Sequence
Behind the Storyline’s Creation
Brian Dietzen revealed that the decision to portray Breena’s death was a way to reflect the real-world impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The creators aimed to show the grief of losing a loved one without sacrificing a main character. The storyline offered a poignant narrative that resonated deeply with audiences. Breena Palmer’s tragic death remains one of NCIS ’s most emotional story arcs, highlighting love, loss, and resilience.
Grey’s Anatomy is celebrated for its gripping storylines and iconic characters, but it has also seen its share of off-screen drama. Isaiah Washington, who portrayed the skilled and ambitious Dr. Preston Burke, departed the show in 2007 under controversial circumstances. His exit left fans shocked and raised questions about the real reasons behind it.
The Incident That Sparked His Exit
Isaiah Washington’s departure was not part of the original script. The actor was fired following an on-set altercation with Patrick Dempsey (Derek Shepherd), during which Washington allegedly used a homophobic slur.
While he denied targeting anyone, reports linked the remark to T.R. Knight’s sexual orientation, causing significant backlash. Despite apologizing, his repeated use of the term at the Golden Globes reignited the controversy, leading ABC to terminate his contract.
Dr. Preston Burke: A Beloved Character
Dr. Burke’s character was central to Grey’s Anatomy during its early seasons. His tumultuous relationship with Cristina Yang, played by Sandra Oh, captivated audiences and became a key plotline.
Burke was also a mentor to George O’Malley and a respected peer to Derek Shepherd, mirroring their real-life dynamics. His dramatic departure in Season 3’s finale, “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” left fans reeling as Burke walked away from his wedding and disappeared without explanation.
A Brief Return in Season 10
Isaiah Washington made a one-time return to Grey’s Anatomy in Season 10 for the episode “We Are Never Getting Back Together.” His appearance was part of Cristina Yang’s farewell storyline, offering closure to their relationship. Burke’s offer for Cristina to take over his hospital in Switzerland allowed fans to see a resolution to their complex dynamic, bringing a satisfying end to their story.
Burke On Grey’s Anatomy (Image via Getty)
Life After Grey’s Anatomy
Despite the controversy, Washington continued his acting career. He starred in The 100 as Thelonius Jaha and appeared in films like The Sin Seer and Corsicana . While many of his roles have been in smaller productions, he remains active in the entertainment industry.
Shonda Rhimes’ Perspective on Redemption
Series creator Shonda Rhimes maintained a balanced stance, acknowledging Washington’s mistakes while highlighting the riveting chemistry he shared with Sandra Oh. Rhimes’ decision to bring him back for one episode reflected her belief in growth and redemption, emphasizing that people deserve second chances.
Isaiah Washington’s exit from Grey’s Anatomy remains one of the show’s most controversial moments, but his portrayal of Dr. Preston Burke continues to be a significant part of the series’ legacy.
