Grey’s Anatomy showrunner Meg Marinis has shared insights on the future of the beloved medical drama amid Ellen Pompeo stepping back as Meredith Grey. Since hitting screens in 2005, the series has focused on Meredith Grey’s incredible journey, blossoming from a surgical intern to a renowned surgeon. However, with Pompeo reducing her role and moving to Boston in season 19, fans are left wondering: can the show go on without her?
In a recent interview with the LA Times, Marinis addressed this concern, emphasizing how Meredith Grey’s character is intricately woven into the very fabric of the series. Despite a strong ensemble cast developed over 20 seasons, the impact of Meredith continues to resonate, influencing the stories of new surgeons at Grey Sloan Memorial. Check out her full comments:
I hope that we don’t ever have to see a “Grey’s” without Meredith every now and then. We have an amazing cast alongside Ellen Pompeo. I think our episodes without her are just as strong, but it’s just so nice to hear her voice with the voiceovers.
Even though she isn’t present in every episode, it feels like she can be there. We constantly refer to her. She’s emerged as a world-class surgeon from this hospital. When Bailey [Chandra Wilson] and Richard [James Pickens Jr.] mentor the new interns, they evoke Meredith’s spirit, remembering what she achieved.
We still have [Derek’s family] Amelia Shepherd [Caterina Scorsone] and Lucas Adams [Niko Terho]. The essence of Meredith never disappears.
What This Means For Grey’s Anatomy’s Future
The Show Could Continue Without Meredith, But Her Presence Is Everlasting
Even though the storylines have shifted focus beyond Meredith Grey, Marinis’ remarks reinforce the fact that the show continues to draw on her legacy. Whether through voiceovers, character nods, or story arcs linked to her journey, Meredith’s impact remains strong. While Pompeo has reduced her on-screen role, she still lends her voice as a narrator and occasionally appears. Season 21 is currently ongoing, with Pompeo making only seven appearances this season, signaling a shift toward exploring other characters’ stories.
Ellen Pompeo is now starring in her first major role since Grey’s Anatomy in the Hulu series Good American Family.
Grey’s Anatomy has showcased its ability to thrive while highlighting other characters, such as Dr. Bailey and Dr. Richard Webber, as they guide the newest group of surgical interns. The show’s ability to endure after significant character exits, like Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey) and Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh), proves its resilience. Marinis’ insights suggest that even if Pompeo fully steps away, Meredith’s influence will remain, intertwining the show’s future with her legacy.
Our Take On Grey’s Anatomy’s Future Without Meredith
Nothing Has Been Set In Stone
While Grey’s Anatomy has succeeded with its diverse cast, the emotional heart of the series remains tied to Meredith Grey. Her continued influence provides a sense of connection for devoted fans who have followed her story for over two decades. However, as the series progresses, it may have to prepare for a future without Pompeo. Although her involvement in season 22 remains uncertain, Marinis indicated that should she return, it would still be in a limited role.
Catch new episodes of Grey’s Anatomy on Thursdays at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT on ABC.
Source: LA Times