Call Her Daddy Podcast Summary
Episode Title: Ellen Pompeo: Pick Me, Choose Me, Pay Me More
Host: Alex Cooper
Release Date: March 19, 2025
In this compelling episode of "Call Her Daddy," host Alex Cooper sits down with Ellen Pompeo, the acclaimed star of "Grey's Anatomy," to delve into her remarkable career, personal life, advocacy efforts, and her enduring legacy in the entertainment industry. The conversation provides deep insights into balancing fame, family, and self-advocacy, offering inspiration to listeners navigating similar paths.
1. Invitation to the Podcast and Family Involvement
Ellen shares a heartfelt story about how her daughter, Stella, played a pivotal role in inviting her to the podcast. This family connection adds a unique dynamic to the interview, highlighting Ellen's dual roles as a mother and a leading actress.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [02:12]: "She follows me. That's so cool… And she just knew I would do it."
2. Personal Background and Parenting Style
Ellen opens up about her upbringing in Boston and how it shaped her strict and intense approach to parenting. Describing herself as "bossy, empathetic, and passionate," she emphasizes the importance of discipline and empathy in her household.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [03:33]: "I will break their fingers. I am very strict."
3. Experiences on "Grey's Anatomy" and Its Societal Impact
Discussing her long-standing role on "Grey's Anatomy," Ellen reflects on how the show has inspired many viewers to pursue careers in medicine. She shares that her interactions with fans are overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how the show has influenced their professional paths.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [05:30]: "People say, 'I'm a pediatric oncologist because of you.'"
4. Shonda Rhimes’ Leadership and Support for Women
Ellen praises Shonda Rhimes for her exceptional leadership and unwavering support for female actors. She highlights Rhimes' efforts to create a balanced environment where women can thrive both professionally and personally, especially when navigating motherhood.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [22:48]: "Shonda is extraordinary… she really supports women being able to work and have families."
5. Journey into Motherhood and Personal Growth
Ellen shares her initial hesitations about becoming a mother and how her relationship with her husband, Chris, influenced her decision. She describes the profound personal transformation that motherhood brought, enhancing her empathy and emotional depth.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [26:41]: "To be financially independent is what makes me the happiest, me feeling the most free."
6. Navigating Career Challenges and Financial Advocacy
Ellen discusses the gender disparities she faced in contract negotiations, particularly in securing her $20 million salary. She emphasizes the importance of using data to advocate for fair compensation and leveraging her position to uplift other women in the industry.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [52:17]: "I have this data to back up… I know the show has generated this much money. I definitely deserve a percentage of that."
7. Handling Fame, Public Scrutiny, and Legacy
Addressing the challenges of fame, Ellen reflects on the public's mixed reactions to her salary reveal. She discusses strategies for maintaining focus on her work despite external negativity and outlines her desire to leave a legacy of empowerment and support for other women.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [79:58]: "I’d like my legacy to be someone who used my voice, my privilege and my power to help other people."
8. Relationship Dynamics and Overcoming Media Scrutiny
Ellen opens up about her interracial marriage to Chris and the media scrutiny they faced. She discusses the additional challenges posed by racism and how mutual support in her marriage helped them navigate through public judgment and bias.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [65:35]: "The media was really biased because… how dare this skinny, blonde, petite little woman be with this tall black man."
9. Transitioning to New Projects and Exploring Different Roles
Ellen talks about her decision to step away from "Grey's Anatomy" to explore new acting roles that challenge her creatively. She shares her excitement about upcoming projects that diverge from her iconic character, aiming to showcase her versatility as an actress.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [71:21]: "I couldn’t do Grey's anymore… If nothing's coming along, my destiny will find me."
10. Preparing for New Roles and Storytelling
Discussing her preparation for new, darker roles, Ellen explains how she draws from universal maternal instincts and expectations. She emphasizes the complexity of human emotions and perspectives, aiming to create multifaceted characters that resonate deeply with audiences.
Notable Quote:
Ellen Pompeo [76:06]: "Every mother has the intention and the maternal, biological, crazy instinct to literally do anything for your kids."
Conclusion
Ellen Pompeo's candid conversation on "Call Her Daddy" offers a multifaceted look into her life as a successful actress, mother, and advocate for women's empowerment. From navigating the complexities of fame and strict parenting to advocating for fair compensation and exploring new creative avenues, Ellen provides invaluable insights and inspiration. Her dedication to using her platform to uplift others sets a powerful example for women in all fields.
Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for Ellen's resilience, integrity, and commitment to making a meaningful impact both on and off the screen.
Notable Quotes Recap:
- Ellen Pompeo [02:12]: "She follows me. That's so cool… And she just knew I would do it."
- Ellen Pompeo [03:33]: "I will break their fingers. I am very strict."
- Ellen Pompeo [05:30]: "People say, 'I'm a pediatric oncologist because of you.'"
- Ellen Pompeo [22:48]: "Shonda is extraordinary… she really supports women being able to work and have families."
- Ellen Pompeo [26:41]: "To be financially independent is what makes me the happiest, me feeling the most free."
- Ellen Pompeo [52:17]: "I have this data to back up… I know the show has generated this much money. I definitely deserve a percentage of that."
- Ellen Pompeo [79:58]: "I’d like my legacy to be someone who used my voice, my privilege and my power to help other people."
- Ellen Pompeo [65:35]: "The media was really biased because… how dare this skinny, blonde, petite little woman be with this tall black man."
- Ellen Pompeo [71:21]: "I couldn’t do Grey's anymore… If nothing's coming along, my destiny will find me."
- Ellen Pompeo [76:06]: "Every mother has the intention and the maternal, biological, crazy instinct to literally do anything for your kids."
This structured summary captures the essence of Ellen Pompeo's interview, highlighting key discussions, insights, and memorable quotes, making it accessible and engaging for those who haven't listened to the episode.