Ellen Pompeo, known for her role as Meredith Grey in the long-running medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy,” has been a staple on the show since its premiere in 2005. Despite her character having less screen time in recent years, Pompeo has made it clear that she has no plans to leave the show anytime soon.
In a recent interview with El PaĂs, Pompeo explained her reasoning behind staying on the show, citing both emotional and financial factors. With “Grey’s Anatomy” being streamed over a billion times in 2024, Pompeo emphasized the financial benefits that the companies behind the show reap from her hard work. She expressed that walking away completely would mean that everyone else profits from her efforts except for herself, a situation that she finds unfair. Additionally, Pompeo acknowledged the emotional significance of the show to viewers and expressed her desire to show gratitude towards the series.
Created by Shonda Rhimes and Michelle Lirtzman, “Grey’s Anatomy” has become a cultural phenomenon, running for 444 episodes and counting. The show, now in its 21st season, has seen various cast members come and go over the years, with Pompeo being one of the few remaining original actors. Other iconic cast members include Sandra Oh, Patrick Dempsey, Chandra Wilson, and James Pickens Jr., among others.
In addition to her role on “Grey’s Anatomy,” Pompeo recently took on a new challenge by joining the Hulu limited series “Good American Family.” She mentioned that this project offers her the opportunity to portray a character vastly different from Meredith Grey, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Pompeo’s dedication to “Grey’s Anatomy” and her willingness to explore new roles demonstrate her commitment to her craft and her desire to continue growing as an actress. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Meredith Grey’s journey, Pompeo’s presence on the show continues to be a driving force behind its enduring success.