Ellen Pompeo talks about her exit from "Grey’s Anatomy." Image Source: USA Today
Ellen Pompeo talks about her exit from "Grey’s Anatomy."
Actress Ellen Pompeo, who is highly regarded as Dr. Meredith Grey on ABC Studios’ "Grey’s Anatomy," said goodbye to the character on Thursday’s emotional winter premiere episode as a series regular. But it's not the last time the actress will be seen in scrubs; she's scheduled to appear in the Season 19 finale.
Ellen Pompeo appeared on a December episode of The Drew Barrymore Show where she addressed her decision to step back from the show as a series regular, explaining that she feels super happy about her decision but clarified that the show means a lot to her and she has loved a lot of the experience while working, adding that it’s just that she is going to mix it up a little.
The actress went on to tell Drew Barrymore that she is 53, her brain is shuffled, and she requires to try something new or she will turn into a crossword that no one can solve that would seem in the New York Times. Ellen made a joke that 19 years is longer than most people keep their children in their homes, adding that parents spend their kids with them until they are 18 after which they are anticipated to go off to college, so her departure from the series is like her going away to college.
Ellen Pompeo clarified that she has a lot taking place right now, adding that she has three kids to look after and that it's essential for her to be around and present for them. She also mentioned doing a miniseries for Hulu in the spring, which is kinda awesome, crazy and based on a true story. The star took to social media in November to convey what she thought about leaving the show as a series regular, even though she will be the executive producer and narrator.
Ellen wrote that she is immensely thankful and taken aback by the affection and backing she has received as Meredith Grey and the show over the past 19 seasons and that nothing would have been feasible without the greatest fans around the globe. Ellen referred to her fans as "riders," telling that they had managed to make the ride so memorable and pleasurable and that she cherished and respected every one of them.
Back in September, Ellen Pompeo told Entertainment Tonight that it's still Grey's; even if she takes a step back, Meredith will be there in spirit, which is the house Grey built, so she's always around. Ellen added that she only needs to step away for a short time to do a Hulu show, and it's a wonderful organization to work for, and she takes into account herself being incredibly lucky that they have granted her to do both, so she had no choice but to accept.
A few months ago, Ellen Pompeo talked about what Grey's Anatomy would have been like without her, and she explained that the creators are always attempting to relaunch the show, which can be challenging at times, but she also said that the show has spoken to a lot of people, and younger folks love it. According to the leading lady, the show has motivated many generations after generations of health professionals, so it has a good amount of material for young people, and they will continue to provide entertainment for the young folks even if she is not in it, but it will go much further than her.
Shonda Rhimes, the show's creator, and showrunner shared her affection for her leading lady of the past 19 seasons with a shot of Ellen Pompeo from Thursday's episode, along with a few adorable photos of the two. She wrote that what a ride these past 19 seasons have indeed been! Shonda added that she would still not trade the memories or her for anything adding that she is waiting to look forward to her next chapter. She lastly wrote Dr. Grey, she will see her later.
