As a long-time fan of Grey’s Anatomy, I must say it’s simply astounding to see Ellen Pompeo, a cast member since season three, still passionately involved with the show! The longevity and continued success of Grey’s are truly remarkable, and it seems that Ellen feels just as strongly about keeping the show going. Her dedication is admirable, and I can’t help but wonder how many more medical tales this incredible series will unfold before finally calling it a day.
Meg Marinis got hired on Grey’s Anatomy as her first job out of college.
In its second season, the popular medical drama on ABC, where Ellen Pompeo portrayed a green surgical intern at the fictional Seattle Grace Hospital, was unfolding the Denny Duquette storyline, as Marinis recalls (a memorable story arc featuring Katherine Heigl and Jeffrey Dean Morgan).
Marinis, who had been religiously watching the series every Thursday night, applied for the role of Shonda Rhimes’ second assistant. Unfortunately, she wasn’t chosen for that position. However, a new job opportunity presented itself – as a writer’s assistant (PA). To her delight, she was selected for this position instead! “I was overjoyed because I genuinely loved the show,” she recounts to The Hollywood Reporter. “At that time, I had no idea how impactful it would become. A whole decade ago, I never imagined I’d still be here!
Marinis is not only continuing her role in Grey’s Anatomy, but she has also taken over as the showrunner for this long-running medical drama that remains a staple of primetime television. As it enters its 21st season, Marinis stepped into the role after Krista Vernoff, but their milestone season was delayed and eventually shortened to just 10 episodes due to Hollywood’s double strikes in 2023. Reflecting on this period, Marinis recalls feeling that she didn’t adequately highlight each member of the vast cast. “I felt like I couldn’t give everyone who works here the attention they deserved and the space to perform at their best,” she said.
In their 21st season, Marinis and Grey’s Anatomy come back strong, delivering a 18-episode run and featuring more of Pompeo on screen than she has since reducing her role in season 19. (She continues to be the voiceover narrator for every episode.) “We always keep an open door for her,” they say. “It’s great to have her with us for more episodes than last season.
In the section below, Marinis delves into her intricate future schemes after an initial episode heavily emphasizing Meredith (Pompeo). Furthermore, she explores anticipated character comebacks (welcome back Jesse Williams and Jason George!), prepares for upcoming cast departures (Midori Francis and Jake Borelli are leaving this season), and hints at the storylines she plans to explore: “I’ll test whatever limits they’ll allow me.
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As showrunner for season 20, you faced a significant milestone with a nostalgic slant, but one affected by dual Hollywood strikes. Now, you’re in charge of 18 episodes for season 21. What lessons from season 20 did you carry forward to lead this full season?
Previously, there were numerous story ideas presented in our writers’ room that didn’t make it to last season. This new season, though, has us brimming with excitement because we finally have the chance to share the stories we’ve been eager to tell. I was slightly disheartened because I couldn’t fully develop each character’s arc due to limited episodes. I felt that I may not have done justice to our talented cast and that we had to collaborate more writers since we have a large writing team. This situation made me realize that I didn’t provide everyone working here with the opportunities they deserved, and I couldn’t offer them enough creative space to excel. Now, with 18 episodes at our disposal, each member of the cast and crew can showcase their talents fully.
Grew up alongside these friends. Witnessing them receive just 10 episodes’ worth of work after over 150 days without any work left me feeling empathetic for everyone involved. So, I found myself saying, “Alright, we returned early – a week earlier than usual – in July, and we have more episodes.” I encouraged us to come back sooner so that we could meet our airdates, keeping pace with the rest of the Thursday night lineup. Here’s hoping this year brings some semblance of normality.
Will your show be broadcasted on ABC at 10 p.m. in the future? This makes me wonder if the plotlines might become more mature or explicit.
For the first time ever, at 10 p.m., we’ll be gracing your screens this year. While I’m eager to explore new boundaries, I want to assure you that the essence of our show remains unchanged. If we manage to incorporate more mature themes or intense scenes, we will certainly do so. However, it won’t be for the sake of a specific time slot. After all, we are Grey’s Anatomy, and our audience is always ready to find us wherever we may be.
The new season starts off immediately following the previous one’s conclusion, as Catherine Fox (Debbie Allen) dismisses several key doctors due to their association with Meredith and Amelia’s groundbreaking work on Alzheimer’s disease. What kind of atmosphere can we expect this season?
As we move into the first part of the new season, we’re picking up where we left off at the end of season 20, focusing primarily on the job situations. Many jobs are at stake, and there’s a question of whether we can salvage them. It’s not an easy task for everyone, but we’re certainly trying.
What was it like filming that slap between Chandra Wilson and Debbie Allen?
People often wonder about that! (Laughs) It was both thrilling and terrifying! Debbie [Allen] seemed as if she were asking for it, she was ready to go through with it. Debbie Allen is always up for a challenge. She knew right away that it would end up in the promo once we filmed it. We added some movie magic to make it look like there was contact, but it was only very gentle contact. Even with such soft contact, Chandra — being Chandra Wilson — immediately asked, “Are you alright?!” When you combine this with all the interns’ shocked expressions and a bit of sound effect, it creates that dramatic moment. I believe everyone can relate to this situation because we’ve all had dreams where we tell someone everything we’d never dare say in real life.
I’m curious to know about Ellen Pompeo’s character arc this season. After watching the premiere, it seems her storyline is significant and will carry on throughout the season. Prior to the start of the season, it was announced she would be in seven episodes, with the potential for more since she completed her series on Hulu. Is there any chance that additional episodes beyond those seven have been added?
At the moment, we don’t have a definite count, and our usual practice isn’t to bring everything together at once. However, I can assure you that Ellen’s story carries on as we embark on this new season. With Ellen, it’s a free-flowing policy – whenever we can get Ellen on set and in the episodes, we are thrilled to do so. She might not physically appear in every episode, but her presence is always felt through voiceovers and ongoing discussions about her character. I have a fantastic working relationship with Ellen, and together, we create some wonderful scenes. If given the opportunity, I would happily write numerous episodes featuring Ellen’s character, Meredith, engaging in intense conflicts with another character, Catherine.
The premiere scenes with Meredith and Catherine felt almost like watching a stage play.
These characters possess an astonishing depth of similarity that might not be immediately apparent to many viewers. I’m deeply captivated by the dynamic between Meredith and Ellis (Kate Burton), even though Ellis is no longer present. When a complex relationship with one’s mother is involved, it tends to color all other significant relationships with older females. I find myself drawn to exploring the background of the series, delving into Meredith’s experiences with maternal figures and mentors. It goes without saying that I relish crafting narratives for her and Bailey too.
Discussing what Ellen will perform this season requires scheduling considerations. When it comes to Meredith’s storyline, though, do you present your ideas to her in sections rather than all at once? In your role as showrunner, how do you manage these types of discussions?
Communicating with her and the production team is part of the process. It’s more convenient for her if we break things down into segments, which is similar to how storylines are handled on Grey’s Anatomy through story arcs. For instance, we might introduce a recurring patient over three episodes, after which they depart. Short, standalone stories are also common, but due to the current viewing habits of the show, we have the flexibility to tell stories in various ways. This could mean watching subsequent parts straight away on streaming platforms or having viewers wait a week. Although it’s demanding, it’s exciting because there are numerous creative avenues for storytelling.
The cast is fractured at the start of this season, and the interns become the central focus at the hospital. When you brought these interns onto the show as regular characters in season 19, it was a nod to the early days and also seen as an experiment to determine if the show could adapt with Ellen taking on a smaller role. Now that they’re leading the season 21 premiere, how would you describe the outcome of that test? If Ellen were to reduce her involvement further, do you believe this approach has helped prolong the life of the show?
I take a special interest in these interns, as I view them as Meredith’s apprentices. In the 19th season, they were referred to as the “second chance” interns she recruited. There seems to be a bit of Meredith Grey’s spirit within each of them. They share her rebellious nature and are not shy about flouting rules. Watching these trainees challenge authority, especially under Bailey’s watchful eye as their residency director, is quite entertaining. After all, there’s nothing more intriguing than witnessing interns push boundaries and observing the repercussions.
It’s not necessarily a test, but these characters have grown significantly and become integral elements within the show. Through their relationships with our main characters, they reveal new aspects about them. The interns are shown in various relationships. We’ve created something captivating with Blue [Harry Shum Jr.]; Simone’s [Alexis Floyd] connection with Lucas [Niko Terho]; Simone’s bond with Bailey; Mika [Midori Francis] shares a unique bond with Owen [Kevin McKidd] and Teddy [Kim Raver], following the events involving Teddy. As a result, they feel like an integral part of our world and family, and it’s a joy to write for them. Writing for them is a delight. They consistently impress me with their performances in unexpected yet wonderful ways.
Among the interns, Mika Yasuda, who is also known as Midori Francis, will be departing from the show during this season. Could you provide some insights into her character’s narrative, and whether her departure occurs earlier or later in the storyline?
I’d rather keep certain details under wraps due to spoilers, as I’m incredibly thrilled with how things have unfolded. However, I can assure you that we’ve done justice to the introduction and development of Mika’s character, making her a joy to write. This season, she truly shines, and I believe viewers will become deeply invested in her storyline. The entire cast and crew, including myself, feel incredibly fortunate. We work collaboratively, and last night, one of my co-stars was even sitting at my desk reviewing a scene. I’m simply grateful for the team, and it feels like I’ve struck gold in this business. As we’ve shown with the return of Kali Rocha’s Dr. Sydney Heron after 17 years, being away from the Grey’s Anatomy family doesn’t mean you won’t reappear from time to time.
Does that mean Grey Sloan will be getting a new intern at some point?
We constantly meet new individuals, but no one is prepared to take the place of the love I hold dear!
After spending seven seasons as Dr. Levi Schmitt, played by Jake Borelli, we wonder how his departure from ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ will be handled. What sort of farewell can we expect for Levi?
In essence, he’s the same individual, but after seven years, he has undergone a significant transformation. Initially, you might recall Levi as a young intern donning glasses, somewhat green behind the ears. However, fast-forwarding to the present, I assure you that he has blossomed into a self-realized person and accomplished doctor. This evolution will be prominently celebrated.
Then, some well-known characters make their reappearance. You pointed out Kali Rocha’s return in the first episode. We also noticed the comeback of Jesse Williams, who is a favorite on Grey’s, and Jason George, who returned following the end of Station 19. Could you tell us about Ben Warren’s future storyline, and how many more times will we get to see Jackson Avery?
With Jackson, we’ll find ourselves right in the thick of the storyline, wondering if Jesse is around. Although everything is carefully plotted out, there’s an element of curiosity about where the Boston story arc takes us involving Meredith, Nick (Scott Speedman), and Catherine. But it was truly enjoyable to have Jesse back this season because he wasn’t present last time. There had been a significant conflict between Meredith and Catherine, but due to various reasons like availability, we couldn’t introduce Jesse into the mix last year. I was thrilled when I learned that he had a free slot in his schedule, enabling us to explore his perspective on the ongoing conflict now. To him, it’s not just a professional dispute with Meredith; it’s also a deeply personal betrayal of their friendship. Jesse will always remain an essential part of our story world.
As a gamer, I can’t hide my excitement about Jason returning home. He may have been the lead in a hit series for seven years, but this place was where he started his journey. There’s no love greater than what Ben and Bailey share, and with her now being the residency director, things are bound to change a bit. They’ve worked together at the hospital before, but never with her as his direct superior. The interns might find it interesting once he’s back – will he be a friend or a spy? There’s going to be some intriguing dynamics there. Besides, Jason brings a unique set of skills to the table that not everyone possesses, which will undoubtedly enrich his work as a surgeon. And let’s face it, Ben Warren was born for Grey Sloan. I can hardly wait for him to return!
Regarding the process of reintroducing characters, how do you go about making such choices? Is it common for character returns to be suggested frequently within the writers’ workspace?
Indeed, there are more proposals for bringing back characters than actually come to fruition. The affection for past personalities from the series is profound and widespread. However, we don’t want to overdo it due to our extensive cast and the fact that some characters have unfortunately passed away. Yet, we’ve made exceptions in the past! The decision hinges on timing and availability. Even if it’s an old character, their return should propel the current storylines forward. It’s a delicate ballet we perform. When feasible, we make it work. But we must strike a balance to keep it unique and captivating.
But yes, there will always be someone who is like, “What about Addison [Kate Walsh] in this episode!” She is such a treat to have. It depends, are we telling a big Amelia story and could someone from the Shepherd family come back? If we’re telling a Bailey or Richard [James Pickens Jr.] story, that’s when we look at people like Addison. Or if we’re telling a Meredith story, Jackson. We try to spread it around and keep fans on their toes so we can surprise them with appearances.
You mentioned how Bailey and Ben are a solid couple. I’m curious how you view Nick and Meredith. Nick isn’t in the premiere, but they had their happy ending with the season 20 finale. Do you now view them as this safe couple on the road to happily ever after, or will that road still be twisty and bumpy?
currently, Meredith seems to be on a path leading to a blissful future with him, chuckles. Meredith has progressed significantly in her relationships, and it’s evident that he cherishes her, accepting her imperfections. However, they made a promise to each other at the end of the previous season, and I suspect she intends to uphold it for as long as possible. He laid bare his feelings for her in the finale, and she pledged to make an effort. Consequently, if Meredith promises to try, I’m confident that she will follow through.
Did the initial intention include keeping Scott Speedman for such an extended period, or was his prolonged stay a result of observing the growing chemistry and narrative development between him and other characters?
It evolved. They had instant chemistry the very first time we saw them in season 14, but he was written as a guest star. It was always in the back of our minds. I wasn’t in charge at the time, but when I saw him in that episode I was like, “Oh my God, that’s Ben from Felicity, and he has instant chemistry with Meredith, why isn’t he on the show?” (Laughs.) He was so good, and he brought out this lightness in her, even in that first episode, that was kind of mesmerizing. So we talked about it for a couple of years and a few years after that. And the timing was never right based on where Meredith’s story was. And then we got to a point where we pitched it again in the writers room, and Krista [Vernoff] said, “Alright let me think about it.” And then she came in and said, “Alright, I’m making a call.”
The goal, then, when you brought him on was that it would be an arc?
Yes, and it would surprise Meredith, like she wasn’t expecting to see him.
Lately, Grey’s Anatomy has tackled the healthcare impact of COVID and the overturning of Roe v. Wade through compelling narratives. I heard that climate change will be your next major issue, and it seems like we got a taste of that in the season premiere with Link (Chris Carmack). Is this going to be a significant focus for the current season?
One of several stories we share across various episodes revolves around Los Angeles, where we’ve been witnessing climate change quite profoundly. This has made it a recurring theme in our writing room, not just as a literary device but also because it’s an undeniable reality that demands our attention.
As a concerned healthcare enthusiast, I’ve noticed a pressing issue that’s garnering attention in the medical world: the impact of hospitals, particularly surgical units, on global carbon emissions. It’s been realized that these institutions significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, mainly due to anesthesia gases and other factors. There’s a growing momentum pushing for solutions on how we can encourage hospitals to adopt greener practices and reduce their carbon footprint. I find this movement inspiring and am eager to see the positive changes it will bring about.
The subjects we focus on are closely tied to the healthcare industry. While some stories might not be directly related, we primarily consider issues that impact doctors and the overall healthcare sector. For instance, we’ve covered COVID-19 from a doctor’s perspective and reproductive rights in the same context. When deciding what topics to delve into, we’re always interested in understanding current challenges within medical care and the experiences of hospital staff. We aim to avoid taking sides in any political debates; instead, our goal is to shed light on the current state of our healthcare system.
This question is trying to ask if the proximity of the election year and the launch of fall TV shows has any influence on the storylines or if it simply brings more attention to these topics.
In our approach, we emphasize more on the content in the airwaves. When it comes to what appears on television, we’re extremely cautious, understanding that our audience has diverse beliefs, viewpoints, and affiliations. We prioritize stories above all else, and creativity is our guiding principle. If there’s an opportunity to teach something, we seize it. However, it’s not our role to dictate opinions; instead, our aim is to educate, present, and remain sensitive to these differences.
Regardless of whether it was a popular subject or not, did the team of writers have a heated discussion concerning any particular episode during this season?
As an ardent participant in these intellectual exchanges, I find myself frequently pondering a question that’s as intriguing as it is complex: “Will the patient’s fate significantly influence the outcome? Or does avoiding death hold a greater weight?” These are the dilemmas we grapple with. However, despite the intensity of our discussions, they are always marked by a sense of tranquility and consideration for all perspectives. While I may joke about the debates being ‘rip-roaring,’ the truth is that everyone maintains a respectful demeanor throughout. Moreover, we invite experts to join us, ensuring our conclusions aren’t based solely on our own insights.
Are there any captivating news-inspired stories this season that you can hint at, or alternatively, a tale so extraordinary it seemed unreal but was actually based on a true account?
We’re known for our unique and astonishing tales. While we share unusual medical cases that might catch you off guard, it’s the extraordinary, mind-boggling emergencies that leave you exclaiming, “Wow, can you believe what happened?
Since the third season, you’ve been a part of Grey’s. What are your thoughts on the show’s endurance over time, and approximately for how much longer do you believe Grey’s Anatomy might continue running?
I’ll continue working until someone asks me to stop using my pen. I’m deeply engrossed in this series and haven’t missed an episode yet, and as long as Shonda Rhimes and ABC are content with our progress, I’m all for it. It seems like there’s always more to explore. The field of medicine evolves every year, and the ways people get injured or fall ill also seem to be ever-changing. There’s an endless supply of unique medical tales to tell. Furthermore, I believe that individuals are constantly discovering novel methods of hurting themselves or falling sick. The new cast members have added fresh faces and viewpoints, making the show even more intriguing. Therefore, it seems that viewers are still interested in our story, and there’s something significant about us creating history. People want to see how things unfold.
Given that you’ve been running as the longest-running primetime medical drama on television for many years, attracting consistent ratings during Thursday nights. Moreover, your show has found a fresh lease of life through streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu, reaching the younger demographic on TikTok. This shift in audience exposure has an impact on the stories we choose to tell, and it’s intriguing to see what resonates with this generation. What kind of narratives surprise you, and what trends or topics go viral among the younger viewers?
After observing what typically becomes popular and spreads rapidly, there will be instances in our brainstorming sessions where we’ll say, “This has viral potential.” We’ve developed a knack for anticipating such moments. For example, recall the slap scene. When we filmed it, we were certain it would serve as the promo and the meme that would circulate on Twitter or similar platforms. The way Meredith or Bailey deliver their lines will determine if it becomes a part of the Meredith-Bailey meme history. We’re always on the lookout for such moments – the next catchphrase equivalent to “vajayjay” or “seriously,” something that resonates with the current generation.
I’m simply thrilled to see that, despite being 21 years old now, it continues to captivate audiences. My nieces are in their twenties, my nephews are high school students, and even their friends are becoming fans. It remains relevant. There’s something incredibly relatable about navigating life in your twenties, embarking on new journeys, and figuring things out – experiences that I believe will always resonate. The original cast truly draws you in, and it’s not just a medical drama; the consequences are literally life or death, making each episode even more gripping.
In crafting our content, we prioritize providing highly accurate information in public health messages, especially for our younger audience members. We’ve discovered through platforms like TikTok that young viewers often view medical information presented on shows like “Grey’s Anatomy” as factual. Consequently, we ask ourselves questions such as, “Is this completely accurate?” and consider how a 15-year-old might perceive the content. Areas where we are particularly cautious include COVID-19, reproductive health, and related topics.
And, of course, with who is sleeping together in the hospital closets.
(Laughs.) Yes. More interns sleep together in the closet than attendings!
Grey’s Anatomy season 21 releases new episodes Thursdays at 10 p.m. on ABC, streaming on Hulu.
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2024-09-27 06:27