Ellen Pompeo, star of the long-running medical drama "Grey's Anatomy," revealed the pivotal role Shonda Rhimes played in securing her $20 million-a-year contract. Pompeo discussed her journey to achieving financial independence and advocating for other women in a recent appearance on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast. The actress emphasized the considerable salary, which the trailblazing actress secured in 2017. This revenue has allowed her to feel “real independence,” as well as the ability to pursue projects that she’s really interested in.
Pompeo did not have enough money to do whatever she wanted and not do whatever she wanted. She thought of having sufficient money as a kind of “freedom.”
Before negotiating her way into her groundbreaking contract, Pompeo turned to Shonda Rhimes. So, when Shonda, the visionary behind “Grey’s Anatomy,” offered her absolutely priceless advice. Despite Rhimes not having direct control over Pompeo's salary, the actress sought her blessing and support before making her demands public. Pompeo was used to being stroked and treated with kid gloves by the state-sponsored network.
Rhimes not only supported her — she encouraged her and energized her. She encouraged her to boldly ask for what she felt she was worth.
Yeah, no one's going to give it to you. You have to ask for it. - Shonda Rhimes
Pompeo’s budgetary salary requests were the talk of the town at the time. She felt she owed it to Rhimes to at least let her know what her salary expectations were. Pompeo was completely unashamed about going to bat with the network on what she deserved to be paid.
Pompeo previously stated her goal was to use her platform and financial success to elevate other women.
How can I amplify someone else? How can I help someone else? How can I lift up someone else that doesn't sit in the position of privilege that I sit in? - Ellen Pompeo
Pompeo told her story of coming to understand the power that comes with money.
I became aware at a really early age that people with money had power. - Ellen Pompeo
For Pompeo, financial independence equates to freedom and happiness.
To be financially independent, to me, is what makes me the happiest and makes me feel the most free. - Ellen Pompeo
Pompeo wants full financial freedom to give women the ability to make their own decisions, free from outside forces in every area of life—including their reproductive health.
You don't have to be with any man you don't want to be with. For women, financial freedom is true independence. - Ellen Pompeo
