Interesting Things About Ellen Pompeo Through The Years

From Modelling to Acting Before her acting career took off, Ellen Pompeo dabbled in modelling. She appeared in a few commercials and even worked as a waitress in New York. Her big break came when she landed a role in the hit TV show 'Grey's Anatomy' in 2005, which transformed her life.

The Power of "Meredith Grey"
While she’s had other roles in television and film, it’s her portrayal of "Meredith Grey" that has solidified her place in TV history. Pompeo’s commitment to the role made her the anchor of the show, which became a massive success. The show itself has run for over 20 seasons, and Pompeo has been a central figure in every season, making her one of the longest-serving stars in TV history.

A Record-Setting Salary
In 2017, Pompeo became the highest-paid actress on TV, earning a reported $20 million per year for her role on 'Grey's Anatomy.' She was one of the first actresses to reach this milestone, earning the respect of her peers and paving the way for other women in television.

Advocacy for Women in Hollywood
Beyond acting, Pompeo has used her platform to advocate for gender equality and fair pay in Hollywood. She has spoken out about the importance of women taking control of their careers and demanding equal treatment in an industry historically dominated by men. She’s been vocal about her desire to ensure that her female co-stars, like "Miranda Bailey" (Chandra Wilson), receive similar pay.

Behind the Scenes: Producing and Directing Pompeo's talents extend beyond acting. Over the years, she has become involved in the behind-the-scenes aspects of 'Grey's Anatomy,' serving as both a producer and director for several episodes. This shift not only speaks to her growing influence but also to her love for storytelling and creating opportunities for others in the industry.

Personal Life and Family In addition to her professional accomplishments, Pompeo’s personal life is equally fascinating. She married music producer Chris Ivery in 2007, and together they have three children. Despite her high-profile career, Pompeo has worked hard to maintain a balance between her family and her acting career. She is known for her relatively low-key lifestyle and commitment to her family.

A Career Beyond TV While Grey's Anatomy has defined much of her career, Pompeo has also taken on other notable roles in both film and television. She starred in the film 'Life of the Party' in 2005 and appeared in the TV series 'Station 19.'

Breaking the Mold: Role Choices Pompeo has often chosen to break away from typical Hollywood roles. She has spoken about turning down roles that didn't align with her values or didn't push boundaries. Her focus on portraying complex, multidimensional female characters has made her an influential figure in Hollywood.

Social Media Savvy Though Pompeo is known for keeping her private life relatively low-key, she has become increasingly active on social media. She’s used her platform to speak out on various social issues, including racial injustice, mental health, and women’s empowerment. Her authenticity and willingness to share her thoughts with her fans has made her an influential voice in the online world.

A Legacy of Influence
As 'Grey's Anatomy' continues to thrive, Ellen Pompeo’s influence extends beyond just her portrayal of "Meredith Grey." She’s shaped the landscape of television with her career and personal advocacy. She remains one of the most respected and impactful actresses of her generation.