Ellen Pompeo has renewed her contract on Shonda Rhimes’ “Grey’s Anatomy” through seasons 15 and 16, becoming the highest-paid dramatic actress on TV at a record $20 million per year, according to media reports.
The new deal would provide Pompeo $575,000 per episode, a seven-figure bonus, back end points on the Shondaland show, a producing credit and an executive producing credit for the upcoming spinoff, The Hollywood Reporter wrote.
The “Grey’s Anatomy” star was making $13 million a year in 2017 (most of which came from the series, though she also has an endorsement deal with skin-care company Philosophy) and tied with Mindy Kaling as the No. 4 highest-paid actress on TV, according to Forbes.
The only actresses who ranked higher were “Big Bang Theory” star Kaley Cuoco ($26 million) and “Modern Family” lead Sofia Vergara ($41.5 million), both ladies of comedy, putting Pompeo at the top for dramas. Using those numbers it is safe to assume the “Grey’s” star is now the highest-paid actress in a TV drama — ever.
ABC confirmed to TheWrap that Pompeo has extended her overall deal with ABC Studios for two years.
Representatives for Pompeo did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment.
“I’m 48 now, so I’ve finally gotten to the place where I’m OK asking for what I deserve, which is something that comes only with age,” Pompeo told THR. “Because I’m not the most ‘relevant’ actress out there. I know that’s the industry perception because I’ve been this character for 14 years. But the truth is, anybody can be good on a show season one and two. Can you be good 14 years later? Now, that’s a f—–‘ skill.”
Amid the reports of Pompeo’s salary upgrade, it’s important to note “Grey’s Anatomy” has not been officially renewed by ABC beyond its current 14th season and showrunner Rhimes recently signed a deal with Netflix.