Ellen Pompeo Confirms Commitment To Grey's Anatomy

Ellen Pompeo, the iconic star of "Grey's Anatomy," has made it clear that she has no intention of leaving the beloved medical drama any time soon. In a candid interview with the Spanish publication El País, published on April 13, 2025, she explained that exiting the series would be illogical both emotionally and financially. After 22 seasons, Pompeo, who plays Dr. Meredith Grey, revealed that the show was streamed over a billion times in 2024, underscoring its enduring popularity and her significant role in its success.

Pompeo, now 55, has been a fixture on the show since its inception on March 27, 2005. Although she stepped back from being a full-time cast member after Season 19, which aired in 2022, she remains closely connected to the series through voiceovers and occasional appearances. She stated, "If I were to walk away completely, everybody gets to make money from my hard work for 20 years and I wouldn't make any money." This sentiment reflects her understanding of the financial dynamics at play in the entertainment industry, where actors often see their images and voices exploited long after they leave a project.

Known for being one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood, Pompeo successfully negotiated a contract in 2018 that reportedly earns her over $20 million a year, including a salary of $575,000 per episode. Her financial acumen has allowed her to secure her place in the industry, especially as she fights for pay equity among women in Hollywood. "I think that it takes all of us women standing up for each other and supporting one another," she remarked, acknowledging the importance of solidarity in the industry.

Despite her long tenure on "Grey's Anatomy," Pompeo has expressed a desire to explore new roles and challenges. She recently took on the role of Kristine Barnett in the Hulu mini-series "Good American Family," a true crime drama that tells the story of a mother who questions the identity of her adoptive daughter with dwarfism. Pompeo described this new role as a welcome challenge, stating, "I was just looking for something that was very different from Meredith Grey, and this offer presented itself." She emphasized the need to prove herself in a different capacity after two decades of playing the same character.

Pompeo's reflections on her career reveal a nuanced understanding of the changes that come with age in Hollywood. "When you're really young in Hollywood, you're hired for your talent, but also for your beauty. They're not hiring you for your beauty at 50 years old, they're hiring you for your complexity and your talent alone," she explained. This perspective resonates with many women in the industry who face similar challenges as they age.

Throughout her career, Pompeo has maintained an attitude of gratitude toward "Grey's Anatomy," recognizing the emotional connection the show has with its audience. She stated, "The show means a lot to people. I want to have an attitude of gratitude toward the show." This appreciation is evident in her continued involvement with the series, even as she balances her personal life and family responsibilities. With three children, she has made a conscious effort to create a balance between her work and home life, saying, "I'm very lucky to be able to get to work sometimes and take time off. I have a nice balance in my life."

Pompeo's journey in the entertainment industry has not been without its challenges. Early in her career on "Grey's Anatomy," she faced pay disparities compared to her male co-stars, which she described as sexist. Reflecting on her early experiences, she said, "I was the namesake of the show; I deserved the same and that was harder to get." Her determination to achieve pay equity has made her a role model for many aspiring actresses who look to her for inspiration.

As she continues to navigate her career, Pompeo remains committed to advocating for women's rights and pay equity in Hollywood. She believes that the conversation around gender pay gaps is crucial, particularly as recent reports indicate that women earn only 83 cents for every dollar men make in various industries. Drawing on her own experiences, she encourages other women to stand up for themselves and demand what they deserve.

Looking ahead, Pompeo is excited about the possibilities that lie beyond "Grey's Anatomy." She acknowledges that stepping back from the show has allowed her to explore new opportunities while still maintaining her connection to the franchise. "I’ve been doing the same thing for 20 years," she noted, expressing her desire to test her abilities in different roles. Critics have praised her performance in "Good American Family," indicating that her foray into darker, more complex characters has been well-received.

As the future of "Grey's Anatomy" remains uncertain, Pompeo's commitment to the show and her desire to explore new roles highlight her multifaceted career. With her financial independence and advocacy for pay equity, she continues to set an example for women in Hollywood. Whether she is on screen as Meredith Grey or taking on new challenges, Ellen Pompeo's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of women in the entertainment industry.