Ellen Pompeo Reflects on Pay Equity, Career Evolution, and Hollywood Gender Disparities

The 'Grey's Anatomy' star discusses her journey from financial struggles to becoming one of TV's highest-paid actors, highlighting systemic challenges women face in Hollywood.

Ellen Pompeo revealed she took the lead role in 'Grey's Anatomy' in 2005 out of financial necessity after struggling to establish a movie career.
By 2018, she negotiated a $20 million annual salary, achieving pay parity with male co-star Patrick Dempsey, who had earned more despite her being the lead and namesake of the show.
Pompeo used data-driven advocacy to demonstrate her value to the franchise, leveraging metrics on the show's revenue and her contributions to its global success.
She faced societal scrutiny after her salary became public, underscoring the double standards women encounter regarding financial success compared to men.
Since scaling back her role on 'Grey's Anatomy' in 2023, Pompeo has continued to advocate for equal pay and representation, aiming to use her platform to uplift other women in the industry.