Grey's Anatomy (2005 — 2024)

The American medical drama television series Grey’s Anatomy (2005–2024) follows the personal and professional lives of surgical interns, residents, and attendings at Seattle Grace Hospital (later renamed Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital). Premiering on March 27, 2005, as a mid-season replacement on ABC, it is currently the network’s longest-running scripted primetime show. The success of the series has propelled actors Pompeo, Dempsey, and Oh to global fame, with all three ranking among the top five highest-earning television actors in 2013. While it was once among the top-ten shows in the United States overall, its ratings have declined. However, as of 2017, it remains one of the most popular shows among viewers aged 18–49. The show also performs well in streaming television; according to February 2023 data, Grey’s Anatomy was the tenth most-watched on-demand program. Grey’s Anatomy has consistently garnered praise from critics and has consistently made appearances on year-end top 10 lists. Since its debut, the series has been hailed by media sources as a ‘phenomenon’ or a ‘juggernaut’ due to its impressive ratings and lasting success. Its impact on popular culture cannot be denied and it has been honored with prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe for Best Television Series – Drama. The show itself has accumulated an impressive 38 Primetime Emmy nominations, including two for Outstanding Drama Series. The talented cast members have also received recognition for their outstanding performances.

The show follows Meredith Grey, the daughter of renowned surgeon Ellis Grey, as she joins the surgical residency program at the fictional Seattle Grace Hospital. Alongside her are fellow doctors Cristina Yang, Izzie Stevens, Alex Karev, and George O’Malley, each juggling personal lives and demanding residency duties. They are mentored by senior resident Miranda Bailey and work with attending physicians Derek Shepherd and Preston Burke. The head of surgery, Richard Webber, was also once involved with Ellis Grey. As the series progresses, Burke, O’Malley, and Stevens all eventually leave their roles within the first 6 seasons. The series also delves into Meredith’s personal life, showcasing both drama and strong emotions. Alongside Webber, Burke, and Shepherd, the surgical department is run by a team of skilled individuals. These include Addison Montgomery, Shepherd’s ex-wife who supervises OB/GYN, neonatal and fetal surgery before departing for Los Angeles in season 3.

Mark Sloan is the head of plastic surgery and also certified in ENT surgery, while Callie Torres initially works as a resident before becoming head of orthopedic surgery and eventually leaving for New York in season 12. Erica Hahn serves as head of cardiothoracic surgery but leaves Seattle Grace after a disagreement with Torres, with whom she had a brief relationship. Owen Hunt leads the trauma surgery team and goes on to marry and divorce Yang. Arizona Robbins heads pediatric surgery and later takes on the role of maternal/fetal surgeon after marrying Torres. Teddy Altman, previously head of cardiothoracic surgery, departs at the end of season 8 but makes a return in season 14. Finally, Derek’s sister Amelia Shepherd joins Seattle Grace as the new head of neurosurgery.