The cast of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ reunited on a hospital set at the 2024 Emmys

Are you old enough to remember when Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital was known as Seattle Grace Mercy West Hospital? If so, then last night’s Emmy Awards no doubt sent you into nostalgic ecstasy.

That is because the 75th annual Emmy Awards gave us the reunion of “Grey’s Anatomy” OG cast members Ellen Pompeo, James Pickens Jr., Chandra Wilson, Justin Chambers and Katherine Heigl.

If you instantly started hearing The Fray’s “How to Save a Life” as you were transported back to 2005 when “Grey’s Anatomy” first aired on ABC, you’re not alone. Show creator Shonda Rhimes captured lightning in a bottle with the cast of season one, with that magic still going strong even 15 years later.

The “Grey’s Anatomy” stars gathered on stage in a hospital room setting that was a nod to their series. The actors presented Paul Walter Hauser with the award for supporting actor in a limited or anthology series or movie. (Hauser won for his role as a serial killer in Apple TV’s “Black Bird.”)

“I’m not sure if Shonda Rhimes knew that she created a show that would have a lasting imprint on television and create lifelong friendships,” Pompeo began.

Heigl chimed in with a subtle acknowledgment of her infamous exit from the show, saying:

“And yes, there have been some changes over the years, but the one thing that has remained a constant is the incredible fan base.”

Heigl played the role of Izzie Stevens from 2005 to 2010, and she won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2007.

However, it was her nomination the following year that made national headlines. In a shocking move, Heigl pulled her name out of the running.

“I did not feel that I was given the material this season to warrant an Emmy nomination and in an effort to maintain the integrity of the academy organization, I withdrew my name from contention,” Heigl said in a public statement. “In addition, I did not want to potentially take away an opportunity from an actress who was given such materials.”

However, it seems like the off-screen drama is now water under the bridge, at least as far as Pompeo and other cast members are concerned. (Shonda Rhimes may be another story.)

As for a possible return to the series, Heigl has said “Never say never.”

The 20th season of “Grey’s Anatomy” will premiere on ABC on March 14.

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