Did George and Izzie die, or will they be back on Grey's Anatomy for a sixth season? Are Mark and Lexie moving forward, or are they sort of in limbo after the season finale?

With no new episodes until September, fans are left largely to their imagination on these topics. But regarding George and Izzie's fate, Shonda Rhimes did issue this quote ...

“We will definitely answer those questions in the fall. As with anyone you come to love, you don’t want to see them die, but it’s all part of the circle of life. There are some top-notch doctors at Seattle Grace and while there may not be miracles, there could be good medicine.”

Make of that what you will.

As for Mark and Lexie, while there was no declaration of love, or move-in date set, some believe they made progress even by discussing the future ... albeit awkwardly.

According to one prominent Grey's Anatomy insider, the two are on the same page, just conflicted over the timeline. Mark's declaration that's he's buying a house wasn't him waving off Lexie; he was just taking Arizona's advice and moving forward.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.