Ellen Pompeo has opened up about a pet peeve she has encountered throughout her long-standing role as Meredith Grey in the hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. Having starred in the series since its debut in 2005, the American actor revealed that being repeatedly addressed as her character rather than by her real name has become somewhat irritating. Speaking to Magic Radio, she said: “I love that you love the show, but please call me by my right name.” Pompeo was quick to clarify, however, that the affection from fans outweighs the occasional annoyance.
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Despite constant speculation about her departure from the series, Pompeo remains firmly attached to the project, both emotionally and professionally. She recently addressed these rumours in an interview with El País, stating bluntly: “That would make no sense, emotionally or financially.” Citing impressive streaming figures – over a billion in 2024 alone – she emphasised that walking away would mean others continue to profit from two decades of her work, while she would not.
Reflecting on a particularly divisive moment in the show’s history, Pompeo shared her reaction to the 2011 musical episode, Song Beneath the Song. “I thought, ‘Oh, we’re doctors, singing about car crashes – that’s a wrap on us.’ But I’m so glad it wasn’t,” she said. The episode, which received mixed reviews at the time, has since become something of a cult favourite among devoted viewers.
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Pompeo ended by expressing her continued gratitude towards Grey’s Anatomy and its loyal fanbase. While she acknowledges the challenges of being so closely associated with a single role, she made it clear that the show holds significant value, not only to herself but also to audiences around the world. “I want to have an attitude of gratitude toward the show,” she concluded.
