Spoiler Alert: Major Plot Points from Chicago Med’s 200th Episode
EXCLUSIVE: Surprise! Torrey DeVitto made a comeback in NBC’s Chicago Med during its landmark 200th episode, which aired tonight.
DeVitto reunited with Nick Gehlfuss, who portrays Dr. Will Halstead, the romantic lead connected to her character, Dr. Natalie Manning. It was confirmed in late August that he would reprise his role this season, and both are lined up to feature in several upcoming episodes.
Since their last appearance at the Season 8 finale, where Gehlfuss exited the series off-screen, Natalie and Will have been trying to adapt to their new family life. Will’s journey to becoming a stepfather to Owen (Frankie DeMaio) has its challenges. He aims to strengthen their relationship and attempts to bond through a boys’ trip in Chicago, which includes attending a Bears game without Natalie.
The Return of Natalie Manning
DeVitto shared her excitement with Deadline, stating, “It felt like going back home for a visit. It was charming to be surrounded by everyone; it was as if no time had passed.”
In another thrilling twist, there’s news of a Manstead baby on the way! However, fans won’t get to celebrate joyfully at Gaffney after her son is shot there, creating a tense atmosphere that’s not ideal for someone who is pregnant.
DeVitto added, “This puts Natalie right back in the middle of the action on Chicago Med. When I heard the storyline, I thought, ‘I would expect nothing less.’ Natalie has always had to deal with trauma and emotion. I can’t just return to sit around; I’ll be right there in the chaos, possibly shedding some tears,” she laughed.
Sharing Joy and Special Moments
Gehlfuss expressed his delight about reuniting with DeVitto for this storyline, emphasizing their shared joy about the baby news. “Knowing Torrey would be joining me added to the thrill of celebrating the 200th episode together. It felt like we fell right back into our rhythm,” he said.
He noted, “The most significant part is that our characters are exploring emotional themes around parenting, which we both are navigating in real life. I got to meet her daughter for the first time on set! It was incredible to see how this influenced our performance. Fans will definitely be surprised, and I hope they feel satisfied.”
Future Developments and Expectations
Showrunner Allen MacDonald commented on the decision to have Natalie and Will continue their stories. “Bringing back Dr. Will naturally leads to seeing Dr. Natalie too, given how intricately their love story is tied to Chicago Med,” he explained.
He further elaborated, “I always intended to bring back both characters but wanted to surprise the audience in the 200th episode by making them think only Nick was returning, and then revealing Natalie in the final scene when Goodwin informs her about Owen’s shooting.”
Looking ahead, MacDonald indicated that Episode 3 would involve a critical situation as Owen’s life hangs in the balance. Natalie will confront feelings of being ‘cursed’—her husband Jeff died when she was pregnant with Owen, and she’s now pregnant again, fearing for her firstborn’s safety.
DeVitto concluded with an uplifting message for devoted fans, expressing her hope that they will feel fulfilled by Natalie and Will’s storyline. “Many fans have expressed how much they miss Manstead and are rooting for them. I genuinely believe this storyline will give them the closure they’ve been looking for,” she shared.
New episodes of Chicago Med air Wednesdays at 8 PM ET on NBC. All OneChicago series are produced by Universal Television and Wolf Entertainment.
