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Could ‘Grey’s’ continue without Ellen Pompeo? The show’s boss hopes it doesn’t come to that

BBG News

Instead of hanging out at the mall or playing video games when their homework was done at age 11 in the ’90s, Meg Marinis, who was quite advanced for her age, would frequently find herself engrossed over the family’s bulky word processor, typing out “ER” scripts as if she were a talented TV writer under pressure to meet a deadline.

The showrunner of “Grey’s Anatomy” explains that the term “Scripts” might not be entirely accurate. Instead, she suggests it could be more fittingly labeled as fan fiction. Nestled within her office at Prospect Studios lot in Los Feliz, she recalls her childhood days, where she frequently watched shows slightly beyond her age range, such as “Friends,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” and “The X-Files.” However, it was the workplace drama and medical aspects of “ER” that truly captivated her. She often created her own episodes filled with flashbacks, delving into the complicated romantic relationships between characters like Mark Greene (Anthony Edwards) and Susan Lewis (Sherry Stringfield), or Carol Hathaway (Julianna Margulies) and Doug Ross (George Clooney).

She found herself captivated by the [medical] jargon. She thought it was fascinating, though she couldn’t quite explain why. Not only was everything moving swiftly and alarms sounding, but it was also thrilling. In the midst of all this action, there were tales of love unfolding. It wasn’t just about one aspect; it was a blend of excitement and romance.

Television

1) In Screen Capture 72, the longest-running television medical series concludes its main character’s journey, while the new release ‘M3GAN’ becomes available on Peacock, and Rodrigo Santoro applauds Sarah Michelle Gellar’s performance.

In Screen Gab No. 72, TV’s longest-running medical drama sends off its lead, ‘M3GAN’ lands on Peacock and Rodrigo Santoro praises Sarah Michelle Gellar)

It’s possible that manifestation played a role. Lately, she’s been steering the current hit medical drama series on ABC, “Grey’s Anatomy”. The show made a comeback last Thursday in a dramatic fashion, with an armed robbery at a convenience store putting Jo’s (Camilla Luddington) pregnancy in jeopardy and Teddy (Kim Raver) and Owen’s (Kevin McKidd) marriage encountering difficulties. This week, Marinis has been perfecting the season finale, which will start filming later this month.

Managing the continuous storytelling on TV’s longest-running hospital drama can be quite complex, much like the medical procedures depicted at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. The series is known for its large cast, and although the character of Ellen Pompeo appeared less frequently, Marinis has been ready for the task. She’s been with the show almost as long as the original cast members, joining in the drama’s third season right after graduating from college as a writers’ production assistant. Over time, she moved up the ranks, becoming a writer’s assistant and medical researcher before being promoted to staff writer. By 2024, when the show began its 20th season, she was chosen to lead it.

In her office (as well as during a separate video conference), Marinis discussed several topics including Pompeo’s future on the show, rumors about the upcoming medical drama “The Pitt,” and a surprising move that one of the characters from “Grey’s” might make for the first time. This conversation has been streamlined for better understanding and brevity.

Beginning with Season 19, Ellen Pompeo’s screen time was reduced as she focused on other endeavors, primarily the upcoming Hulu series “Good American Family.” It was announced that she would appear in at least seven episodes this season. Is it still the case that we will see her in those episodes, and is there a possibility of more appearances?

We’ve shown three episodes with her so far, leaving you with four more to enjoy. We hope Ellen will be here as often as she wants, and as much as she desires. This is an ongoing discussion for future seasons. Since her show is about to start, we haven’t had those discussions yet. However, we want Ellen here as much as possible because she embodies the spirit of our show; her voiceover is still featured in every episode. In the last season, we grouped episodes featuring Meredith together because it makes more sense to tell a story arc rather than multiple one-offs. Meredith’s relationship with Nick (played by Scott Speedman) is significant for me. I’m glad she found love after Derek. Scott Speedman is fantastic and always eager to work with us whenever he can. It’s important for me to stay true to Meredith’s character as she has evolved over the past 20 years, and to see how she interacts with new characters, is fascinating.

But discussions haven’t started yet about how much she’d appear for a possible Season 22?

The discussions about her next contract haven’t kicked off yet. However, I suspect there’s a provision in her previous agreement that covers her already, but I’m not entirely clear on the details. My hunch is that the remuneration will likely be similar to this season’s, and it all boils down to her availability as well.

Could you envision “Grey’s” without Meredith? After all, she’s the one whose name graces the title, and it’s her narrative that kick-started this entire universe.

As a devoted fan of Grey’s Anatomy, I can’t help but express my hope that we don’t have to witness seasons without the ever-present Meredith Gray now and then. With an exceptional cast led by Ellen Pompeo, our episodes are undeniably strong, but there’s a certain charm in hearing her voiceover that adds depth to the storyline. However, even when she’s not physically present, it feels like she’s still very much a part of the show. Her legacy is constantly referenced, and the spirit she embodied lives on through characters like Bailey (Chandra Wilson) and Richard (James Pickens Jr.). Whenever they are training a new class of interns, they evoke Meredith’s spirit as a reminder of her journey and transformation into a world-class surgeon. Even though Derek’s family, Amelia Shepherd [Caterina Scorsone] and Lucas Adams [Niko Terho], are still around, the essence of Meredith never truly fades away.

As a film enthusiast, I’m curious to learn more about the developments in Meredith’s Alzheimer’s research. However, it seems uncertain how she will continue her work following the tension she caused with Catherine Fox (Debbie Allen) due to her recent change in focus.

In our upcoming episodes, we’ll definitely resume that topic. I believe viewers will be pleased to follow its progression. We penned this part a while ago and it touches upon current dilemmas researchers face, such as funding and the impact of research focus on whether one receives financial support or not. Meredith is going to grapple with these difficulties in our show.

What about her personal life? Safe to assume that Nick is the one?

After Derek, it’s him who seems to be the next significant character in Meredith’s life. There’s a lot of speculation due to everyone wondering if she’ll remarry or repeat past experiences. However, I believe the focus isn’t primarily on marriage but rather the intertwining of their lives towards the end of the last season, which suggests he could be “the one”.

He values Meredith’s past and won’t try to replace it, yet he might consider marriage. What stands out is his understanding of who Meredith is and his unwillingness to force her into anything. Additionally, he brings a unique dynamic to their relationship, as he’s the only one since Derek who challenges her in ways that others haven’t. This equality and assertiveness also make me believe he could be her equal. He’s not afraid to stand up for himself when he feels pushed away.

In a more straightforward manner: “Has the show previously addressed contemporary issues such as immigration, abortion, and COVID-19? Given the recent health care-related news under the current administration, specifically concerning Medicaid, do you think it’s relevant to consider investigating these topics in the upcoming season?

In our coverage, we often focus on understanding the doctor’s experiences and challenges. Our audience brings a variety of viewpoints, beliefs, and affiliations to the table. When reporting on topics like the COVID-19 pandemic, we chose to tell the story solely from a medical perspective. We avoided discussing politics or assigning blame, instead focusing on the impact of the pandemic on our healthcare professionals and their feelings of isolation and loneliness. If headlines pique our interest, we’ll continue to adopt this approach in our future reporting.

Approaching the mid-season return, I found myself anxious about how the pregnancy predicament would unfold for Jo, given her past struggles. Fortunately, her children are safe. However, was there a possible scenario where she could have lost one or even both of her babies?

It was clearly stated and I responded, “She won’t be giving up those babies.” I wanted to portray the real challenge that multiple pregnancies pose, which is why we told the story in that particular way as it’s a common experience for many women. I also want to show respect for the situation. While I’m not optimistic about a full-term pregnancy for her due to the twins, I can’t say she’s out of danger yet because she’s carrying multiples. Is she in the clear? I wouldn’t say so, definitely.

Hollywood Inc.

Shonda Rhimes’ medical drama is still attracting a lot of fresh viewers and holds the title as the globally streamed Disney series with the highest viewership.

What’s going on with Teddy, Owen and Cass Beckman (Sophia Bush)? Would you call it a love triangle?

I’m thrilled for the audience to witness the second part of our season as we delve deeper into the storylines. I take pleasure in crafting complex plots that often leave the writers scratching their heads, thinking “Oh dear, she’s entangled us in another intricate knot.” However, it’s all part of keeping our long-running series engaging and distinctive. This particular twist, involving a marriage, is something new for our show. The performances by Kim and Kevin are incredibly authentic, raw, and real. They’re so caught up in their roles as parents and professionals that they scarcely have the chance to focus on their own relationship. We’re shedding light on the repercussions of such a situation.

During your initial tenure as showrunner, both Hollywood strikes caused a postponement and shortening of the season. In the subsequent season, you were at the helm, but unexpected wildfires in Los Angeles forced a halt to production. What was it like to manage a show during such challenging circumstances?

On Tuesday, everyone here was busy working and fixated on their phones. Many commuters from Altadena and Pasadena left early to ensure safety. At around 4:00 AM, while watching the news, I felt we couldn’t go to work. So, at 5:00 AM, I started texting the line producer, asking if there was a plan. They inquired about our intentions, and I expressed my doubts that we could work. At 5:00 AM, I also contacted Shondaland, fortunately reaching an executive. As our 6:45 AM rehearsal approached, I grew more certain that I needed to refuse.

Upon promptly reaching out to everyone, we learned that other shows were taking similar actions. A heavy burden fell upon us as questions arose such as, “Are we inadvertently spending tens of thousands of dollars unnecessarily by not working?” However, I couldn’t ask my team to abandon their homes and families. Tragically, some of our crew members lost their houses, which was heartbreaking. On that Sunday, it was announced that people could return to work on Monday, but I requested a delay of one more day to allow us time to organize and find ways to assist our affected crew members. Fortunately, for us, the situation wasn’t about meeting air dates. We called the crew back on Tuesday following the start of the fires. That day was relatively calm. Debbie Allen and I addressed the crew at the start of the day. A therapist was hired to be present on set so that people could speak to her. I believe this helped alleviate some anxiety by simply restoring a sense of normalcy.

What is the challenge of taking over a show that’s been on for two decades?

This year, I’m more at ease with it as I’ve completed one season. The burden is significant. Essentially, you’re nurturing Shonda Rhimes’ creation, which she’s molded into a cultural icon within the industry. Additionally, the pressure from fans is immense – crafting stories that are innovative and captivating after two decades, without resorting to repetition. Furthermore, as the head of the show, there’s no room for retreat on difficult days because you establish the tone. If you appear confident, your team will feel secure.

Due to budget cuts, it fell on your shoulders to reduce the number of actors and decrease the screen time for some long-time performers. Could you share how you handled this situation?

Shonda and I had multiple discussions. Upon her arrival, we both addressed the cast with me present, clarifying the situation for them. It became apparent to everyone that when we spoke as a team, it signified an action we weren’t comfortable with, but rather a reflection of the current industry conditions. That moment was particularly challenging for me, considering the state of the business climate. I care deeply for each character here, and no one enjoys having to make that difficult phone call.

Grey’s Anatomy” has managed to stay relevant even as other shows in its genre have faded away. When episodes like “The Pitt” generate buzz and attract discussion, what does it tell us about Grey’s Anatomy at this point in its long-running series?

You might find yourself wondering, “What tales are they spinning over there? Are their stories more enticing than ours?” I’m eager to catch up with “The Pitt,” but I’ll wait until the break since I’m quite fond of medical dramas. However, I choose not to watch them while I’m writing to maintain my full concentration on “Grey’s.” I don’t wish to rival or compare; they each have their unique charm. The fact that people are still drawn to medical shows demonstrates their enduring appeal and relevance.

Television

The creator of “Grey’s Anatomy” discusses the methods behind the surprising opening scene in the new season, and reveals why fans didn’t receive the farewell they desired for Katherine Heigl’s character.

The way life unfolds on TikTok for “Grey’s” is truly captivating. I can’t imagine ever skipping over a video showing someone experiencing their friend or partner watching the George O’Malley episode for the first time.

It’s clear that Shonda Rhimes and her characters have truly resonated with viewers, as we watch them navigate their careers over time. Many people can relate to starting a new job, feeling unsure, struggling financially, and not having much personal life outside of work, often relying heavily on a coworker for support. The joy lies in experiencing these moments either as a reminder or a first-time observation through the lens of “Grey’s Anatomy.” There seems to be a certain comfort in watching a show that has been around for so long, providing a constant companion like “Grey’s Anatomy” does. Additionally, there is an ongoing connection with the creators and fans through various platforms, such as TikTok and text messages from writers. A popular joke even suggests that we might witness the end of democracy before the end of “Grey’s Anatomy.

Are you in the process of adding final details to the season’s last episode? Can you share a hint or two that will make more sense once we’ve seen it?

Teddy will do something she’s never done before.

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2025-03-07 07:32

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