What episode does George die in Grey’s Anatomy? (How does George die?)

None of the characters are safe when you’re watching a show like Grey’s Anatomy. What we mean by this is that they can be killed off before you know it. You’ll quickly realize this from the first season of the popular medical drama series. While there have been many gut-wrenching character deaths throughout the 19 seasons, there are some that just hit harder than others. One of those character deaths would have to be George O’Malley’s (T. R. Knight).

George, who was also given the nickname “007” because he was the first intern to mess up during surgery, was one of the main characters in Grey’s Anatomy. He, along with Meredith, Cristina, Izzie, and Alex, all started as surgical interns at the fictional Seattle Grace Hospital. He eventually becomes close with them and even moves in with Meredith and Izzie at one point.

George had his fair share of relationships and flings throughout his time on the show, but his death will forever go down as one of the most shocking character deaths, and we still can’t get over it to this day.

So, how did George die, and in what episode? Here’s what we know.

Spoilers from Grey’s Anatomy seasons 5 and 6 ahead. 

What episode does George die in Grey’s Anatomy?

So, this is a little tricky. Technically, George dies in Grey’s Anatomy season 6 episode 1 titled “Good Mourning” because that’s when the doctors call his death after they try their hardest to revive him. However, in the season 5 finale, George flatlines while on the operating table. This is how the fifth season ends. So, he really dies in the season 5 finale, which is Grey’s Anatomy season 5 episode 24 titled “Now or Never,” but his death isn’t called until the season 6 premiere.

How does George die in Grey’s Anatomy?

In the fifth season, George decides that he wants to join the U.S. Army to be a trauma surgeon. Of course, all of his friends are against him enlisting, but George has made up his mind. But before he could even deploy for duty, he gets hit by a bus while trying to save a woman’s life. He’s dragged by the bus for blocks until the bus driver finally notices him. He’s then taken to Seattle Grace, but no one is able to identify him because his injuries are so severe. Meredith finally recognizes who he is when he traces “007” on her palm with his finger. But sadly, George flatlines soon after. After doing everything they can to try to bring him back to life, George, unfortunately, succumbs to his injuries.

Grey’s Anatomy seasons 1-19 are streaming now on Netflix. Also, stay tuned to Netflix Life for any news on the upcoming Grey’s Anatomy season 20.