Ellen Pompeo Discusses Reaction to Her $20 Million Salary for Grey’s Anatomy

Ellen Pompeo Discusses Reaction to Her $20 Million Salary for Grey’s Anatomy

Ellen Pompeo, the acclaimed star of Grey’s Anatomy, opened up about her experiences surrounding the public’s reaction to her impressive $20 million salary, which was revealed in 2018. During a candid discussion on the podcast Call Her Daddy, Pompeo recounted receiving a startling warning from her then-manager about the backlash she could face.

The Warning That Changed Everything

Reflecting on the moment, Pompeo stated, “My manager at the time said something to me that literally hit me like a brick.” The manager expressed concerns about potential unpopularity, asking Pompeo if she was prepared for the negative reactions that might follow her salary announcement.

Confused, Pompeo asked, “What do you mean?” Her manager clarified, “Just don’t expect everyone to cheer for you. Many people will not be happy for you at all.” This conversation opened Pompeo’s eyes to the challenges of public perception, particularly in an industry where success is often met with scrutiny.

The Challenge of Celebrating Success

Pompeo continued to explore the societal issues surrounding financial disparities, particularly regarding gender. “It can be hard for people to celebrate others, especially when someone achieves something they desire,” she noted. This sentiment reflects wider conversations about female empowerment and representation in Hollywood.

Money and Misogyny in Hollywood

On Call Her Daddy, Alexandria Cooper pointed out that male entertainers typically do not face the same level of criticism regarding their earnings. Pompeo agreed, stating, “It’s patriarchy, it’s misogyny, and that’s the reality. Male athletes receive accolades for their substantial contracts, while women often face backlash for similar financial recognition.”

Focusing on the Work

To counteract the negativity associated with her financial success, Pompeo emphasized the importance of focusing on her craft. “I think what helps me is to take myself out of it and concentrate on my work,” she shared. This perspective reflects a commitment to her role and significant contributions to the medical drama that has captivated audiences for nearly two decades.

Furthermore, Pompeo discussed the empowerment that came with her salary. She stated, “When you make a lot of money as a woman, you gain power, right? So, how can I leverage that power for good?” Her emphasis on uplifting others demonstrates a desire to use her platform to effect positive change.

Addressing Unspoken Reactions

Pompeo described the mixed reactions she received following the revelation of her salary. “I was prepared for criticism because of that warning I received,” she admitted. Despite receiving congratulatory messages from several notable figures, she noticed the silence from others, saying, “Those who remained quiet were telling in their lack of support. It was an interesting experience for sure.”

Negotiating a Historic Contract

At age 55, Ellen Pompeo’s journey to securing her remarkable contract was characterized by thorough market analysis. She was acutely aware of Grey’s Anatomy’s financial performance and her role’s contribution to the show’s success. “I know exactly how much the show has earned for ABC,” she explained. “I’ve spent 20 years promoting that franchise worldwide, so I justified my worth with data.”

Continuing her candid reflections, she stated, “It’s my face, it’s my voice. I’ve done so much work, and I am, in many ways, the animated face of that franchise.” Her remarks emphasize the often-unrecognized contributions of women in television and film.

The Gender Disparity in Hollywood Pay

During the podcast, Pompeo also addressed her earlier experiences in the industry. She revealed that she initially earned less than her male co-star Patrick Dempsey during the pilot episode of Grey’s Anatomy. “To be completely fair, the television landscape was different back then,” Pompeo explained. “He had completed numerous pilots before Grey’s, while I was relatively unknown at the time.”

Despite acknowledging Dempsey’s established career, Pompeo expressed frustration at the gender disparity in pay: “I wasn’t bitter about him receiving his compensation; rather, I felt undervalued, considering I played the titular character.”

A Call for Equal Recognition

Ellen Pompeo’s narrative serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing conversations about gender equality in Hollywood. Despite her immense success, she understands the obstacles women face in an industry that has historically operated under uneven circumstances.

Her story challenges industry norms and calls for more equitable recognition of women’s contributions. As Pompeo continues to advocate for herself and others, she embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. In her words, “Don’t hate the player, hate the game.” Through her journey, she encourages a broader dialogue about the valuation of women’s work.