Grey’s Anatomy Pays Tribute to Former Executive Stephanie Leifer in Season 21 Premiere

The 21st season premiere of the long-running medical drama “Grey's Anatomy,” aired on ABC, was notably concluded with a moving dedication to Stephanie Leifer. Leifer, a beloved programming executive, passed away from cancer in June at the age of 56. She had served in key roles at ABC and its sister studio, ABC Signature, which produces the acclaimed series. Her contributions to the show’s enduring success and her legacy are deeply cherished by those who have worked on the show throughout its two-decade run.

Leifer’s career at ABC spanned 28 years, during which she championed “Grey’s Anatomy” as a current executive and later at ABC Signature. Though she departed the network in 2022, her influence and dedication continue to resonate with the show’s team. Meg Marinis, the executive producer and showrunner of “Grey’s Anatomy,” expressed her sentiments about this dedication in an interview. Reflecting on her time working with Leifer, Marinis remarked on her influential role, “Stephanie Leifer was an incredible person and devoted champion of Grey’s. She truly believed in us from the early years all the way through and supported our creative vision.”

Marinis shared how her career journey began as a production assistant delivering scripts to Leifer’s office, recalling Leifer’s open-door policy and genuine encouragement. “She was so encouraging to writers and attended several Grey’s milestone events. It was a heartbreaking loss for this family,” Marinis added.

“Grey’s Anatomy,” which made television history in 2019 as the longest-running prime-time medical drama in the United States, surpasses “ER,” continues to be a significant part of the TV landscape. Ellen Pompeo, who played Dr. Meredith Grey, remains an integral part of the series despite scaling back her role. While no longer a regular cast member, Pompeo continues to contribute as an executive producer and the narrator for the opening and closing segments of each episode.