Recently, at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Ellen Pompeo was spotted contemplating a striking Cubist portrait. The actress, best known for her role as Meredith Grey on ABC’s medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy,” shared insights about her career and upcoming projects.

The Power of Perspective in Art

Standing in front of a portrait of a woman in a blue dress, Pompeo mused, “There’s three sides to every story, or six sides, or nine.” This observation reflects her understanding of both art and life, embracing the fact that everyone perceives experiences differently.

A Steady Hollywood Presence

Since her breakthrough role in 2005, Pompeo has maintained a dominant presence in television, particularly with her portrayal of a moral compass amid ethical dilemmas in “Grey’s Anatomy.” Despite her success, her appearances outside the show have been limited, primarily due to the demanding schedule of filming.

Exploring New Roles

In 2022, Pompeo renegotiated her contract, reducing her episode count, which opened the door for her first significant role in nearly two decades. She now stars as Kristine Barnett in the limited series “Good American Family,” debuting on Hulu, a narrative inspired by a real-life adoption case gone awry.

A Narrative of Complexity

“Good American Family” challenges viewers by offering multiple perspectives of its characters, including Pompeo’s portrayal of Kristine, who straddles the line between victim and antagonist. This complexity invites a deeper examination of morality and truth, reminiscent of a Picasso painting.

Reflections on Career Choices

As Pompeo anticipates the 20th anniversary of “Grey’s Anatomy,” she reflects on her path and the necessity of evolving beyond her iconic role. “I’ve been dying for something else to do for years… it might be the craziest, dumbest thing, but I’m going to trust in the universe,” she expressed, highlighting her desire for creative growth.

Philosophical Musings

Pompeo’s sharp wit and candid nature have earned her praise from colleagues. Described by creator Katie Robbins as a “salty, salty, salty broad,” her determination is underscored by the tragic loss of her mother at a young age, which instilled in her a sense of fate that guides her decisions. She stated, “It’s my fate,” while discussing her career journey.

From Aspirations to Reality

Growing up in a Boston suburb with limited exposure to the arts, Pompeo initially sought a career in film. However, financial pressures led her to audition for “Grey’s Anatomy.” Initially hesitant to embrace television, she found herself propelled into a leading role that would define her career, recognizing that it was “her fate.”

Courage to Shift Directions

Even though Pompeo has achieved considerable success, she battled creative stagnation after a decade on “Grey’s Anatomy.” After serious contemplation and conversations with industry figures, she embraced the chance to reduce her episode commitments, allowing her to explore “Good American Family.”

Looking Towards the Future

As Pompeo steps into this new chapter, she remains aware of how her established identity might shape audience perceptions. “Maybe people will watch this and hate it,” she shared, expressing both excitement and anxiety about the reception of her latest role. Regardless of outcomes, she appreciates her journey in the industry and values her career, family, and personal fulfillment.