Conflict Arises Between Grey's Anatomy Producer and Creator Shonda Rhimes Over Controversial Meredith Storyline

Summary

Former producer Tony Phelan recalls arguing with Shonda Rhimes over a storyline in Grey's Anatomy where Meredith sleeps with George.

Phelan's concern was that viewers would despise Meredith if the storyline proceeded; however, Rhimes was confident that it would enhance the depth of their relationship.

Rhimes delights in challenging audience assumptions and delving into the intricacies of the characters, regardless of the potential negative response.

During an interview on the Hollywood At Home With The Creative Coalition podcast, former Grey's Anatomy producer and showrunner Tony Phelan discussed an intense argument he had with creator Shonda Rhimes regarding a controversial storyline involving Ellen Pompeo's character, Meredith Grey. Phelan, who worked on the show from 2005 to 2014 and served as co-showrunner alongside his wife Joan Rater for eight seasons, expressed his concern that viewers may develop a negative opinion of Meredith after an on-screen one-night stand with George O'Malley (T.R. Knight) in season 2. Here is Phelan's quote from the interview:

Shonda's brilliance lies in defying audience expectations and embracing it with pride. I vividly recall a heated argument between the two of us in the room regarding Meredith's decision to sleep with George.

I expressed my concern, stating that if she were to sleep with George, it would make us dislike her. Shonda, however, countered by saying, "No, I can envision myself at that age making that choice. It allows us to explore the impact on their relationship. It's something we must do."

How Did Grey's Anatomy Handle George & Meredith?

In the show's early days, George was in love with Meredith, but she only saw him as a friend due to her focus on Derek. With encouragement from Izzie, George finally confesses his feelings to Meredith. In a vulnerable moment, Meredith considers the possibility of being with George.

Their one-night stand, which occurs in Grey's Anatomy season 2, episode 18, "Yesterday", ends badly. Meredith breaks down in tears, leaving George feeling humiliated. This storyline delves deeper into George's character and marks the first time a character other than Meredith narrates an episode. The following episode explores the friends' attempts to overcome the awkwardness and salvage their friendship. At the time, there was much debate about how this storyline negatively impacted their relationship, with some placing blame on Meredith and others on George's relentless yearning.

Eventually, they overcome it and mutually accept responsibility, strengthening their friendship in the process. In Grey's Anatomy season 17, Meredith encounters George on the beach, highlighting his enduring significance to her even after his passing. While in and out of consciousness, Meredith expresses to George the impact he had on her life. Additionally, he makes a spirit visit to her on the Day of the Dead in a season 15 episode, disproving any notion that the intentionally unconventional narrative was detrimental.