Famed TV producer Shonda Rhimes made a fascinating admission on Thursday when she revealed that two beloved characters on her long-running medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy” will leave the show at the end of season 14.
Rhimes stunned some fans with the revelation that actress Jessica Capshaw, who plays Arizona Robbins, and Sarah Drew, who portrays April Kepner, will not be returning for another season.
But she also said something about faith-based characters on TV that’s worth noting: “Devout Christians” are not adequately represented on the small screen. It’s a notable admission, considering that Drew’s character was known for being openly Christian.
“It’s always hard for me to say goodbye to any of my characters. Both Arizona Robbins and April Kepner are not only beloved but iconic — both the LBGTQ and devout Christian communities are underrepresented on TV,” Rhimes wrote on Instagram. “I will be forever grateful to both Jessica and Sarah for bringing these characters to life with such vibrant performance and for inspiring women around the globe. They will always be a part of our Shondaland family.”
Rhimes is known for her progressive stances, and her popular shows have become more edgy and sexualized over the years.
With that in mind, it’s interesting to see her make such an important proclamation — one that many in devout Christian communities have lamented over the years.
Only time will tell if Hollywood dives deeper into faith-based television in the same way it has Christian-themed films. Or, perhaps new characters will be introduced into mainstream programming that properly reflect what it means to live a faith-filled life.
Either way, Rhimes’ comments are worth noting.