Ellen Pompeo Backs Katherine Heigl’s Claims Of ‘Cruel’ Working Hours On ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

Grey’s Anatomy star, Ellen Pompeo, has seconded claims of ‘cruel’ working hours on the hit ABC show.

Katherine Heigl told David Letterman in 2009 interview that the hours – which could result in 17-hour long days – were “cruel and mean.”

13 years later, Pompeo has backed the claims made by her former co-star.

In the latest episode of her Tell Me podcast, the 52-year-old talk about those long days spent on set.

And she went onto to discuss the backlash Heigl faced when she spoke out about it all those years ago.

“Had she said that today, she’d be a complete hero,” Pompeo said. “But she’s ahead of her time, made a statement about our crazy hours and, of course, let’s slam a woman and call her ungrateful.

“When the truth is, she was 100% honest, and it’s absolutely correct what she said.”

Pompeo said that younger actors can be more accepting of working conditions because of their eagerness to be involved.

“You’re so happy to be invited to the party that you’re willing to do whatever it is they’re asking you to do,” she continued.

Heigl eventually left the show after starting a family with her husband.

Pompeo, however, is still the leading lady as Grey’s reaches its 19th season.

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