Exclusive: Real Grey's Anatomy Star Makes a Howling Cameo in Only Murders Season 3's Fake Spinoff

Summary

Jesse Williams was delighted by Only Murders in the Building's Grey's Anatomy reference, showing his appreciation for the homage to his previous show.

The enduring popularity of Grey's Anatomy is highlighted by its playful connection to Only Murders in the Building, demonstrating how actors can still be associated with their characters even after leaving a successful show. Additionally, the mention of a potential Grey's Anatomy spinoff in Only Murders in the Building resonates with the show's history of generating spinoffs, while humorously commenting on the common trend of procedural franchises expanding into different locations and divisions.

On the latest episode of Only Murders in the Building season 3, Loretta Durkin (Meryl Streep), an aspiring actor, receives a fortunate opportunity to audition for Grey's New Orleans: Family Burn Unit, a comical spinoff of Grey's Anatomy. Executive producer John Hoffman shares in an interview with TVLine that Jesse Williams, a former cast member of Grey's Anatomy, had a heartfelt reaction to the unexpected reference to his prior show.

“Jesse was incredibly thrilled with that. He was enthusiastically expressing his delight [during our Zoom table read] regarding the reference. And it’s a genuine tribute. I mean, has there ever been a more triumphant show than Grey’s Anatomy? What a blessing for an actress [like Loretta] to have such an amazing opportunity…. Observing Meryl Streep's excitement for herself is truly a surreal experience.”

Only Murders' Grey's Anatomy Joke Explained

While Tobert, Williams' character in Only Murders in the Building season 3 episode 3, is absent when the Grey's Anatomy reference is made, he spends a significant amount of time investigating Ben's penthouse apartment alongside Mabel (Selena Gomez). However, the connection between the two shows is evident. Despite being put on hold due to the ongoing writers and actors strikes ahead of its 20th season, Grey's Anatomy remains one of the most popular shows on broadcast television. The actors who have appeared on the show continue to be closely associated with their respective roles even after departing from it.

Your browser does not have the capability to play the video.

The idea of another Grey's Anatomy spinoff being teased in Only Murders in the Building is not unlikely. ABC's show has already resulted in two spinoffs, Private Practice and Station 19, and the expansive cast offers potential for more stories to be told. While a potential future spinoff may not have the exact title of Grey's New Orleans: Family Burn Unit, it seems to sarcastically reference how procedural franchises often spin off into different locations and departments.

Loretta's character on Grey's Anatomy has a rich backstory and the potential to have a limp, which fits perfectly into the show's dramatic universe. Despite being known for serious medical stories, Grey's Anatomy has ventured into melodrama on several occasions throughout its 19 seasons. Unfortunately, Loretta ultimately turns down the role, choosing to stay with Oliver's play-turned-musical in Only Murders in the Building season 3, episode 3. This means that the series misses out on the opportunity to satirize another familiar genre. However, the mention of Williams' previous TV role is well-received, gaining approval from him and likely from many viewers as well.