In an emotional reunion that fans never expected, Katherine Heigl and Ellen Pompeo revisited the controversial moments surrounding Heigl’s exit from Grey’s Anatomy. What was meant to be a candid and thoughtful discussion during the 2023 Variety Actors on Actors interview turned into a moment of panic for Heigl herself.

During the Thursday, December 11 episode of the Viall Files podcast, Variety Editor-at-Large Kate Aurthur revealed that after filming the interview, Heigl became extremely anxious, fearing she had shared too much. “Heigl really went there and then was in a huge panic afterwards that she’d said too much,” Aurthur claimed.

Heigl’s Emotional Breakdown and Reassurance

Aurthur went on to share that Heigl’s manager was reportedly in a panic as well, even questioning whether the footage should be released. “Her manager freaked out. She was maybe not going to release the footage,” Aurthur added. Heigl was described as being visibly upset, and her team had to calm her down, assuring her that the public would not react the way she once feared.

Aurthur shared an uplifting moment when she comforted Heigl: “The world has changed, the world has caught up to you, you were right most of the time,” she reassured the actress. Heigl’s manager also admitted, “you were right,” when the episode was eventually aired, signaling a shift in how Heigl’s perspective is now viewed by audiences.

The Backlash Heigl Faced During Her Exit

Heigl, known for portraying Izzie Stevens from 2005 until her departure in 2010, faced a slew of negative headlines at the time, often labeled as “difficult” and “ungrateful.” Her decision to publicly criticize aspects of the show, particularly her withdrawal from Emmy consideration in 2008, marked a period of tension between her and the Grey’s Anatomy team.

“I was so naive. I got on my soapbox and I had some things to say,” Heigl reflected during the interview. “I felt really strongly… and I didn’t think I was going to get such a strong reaction.”

Pompeo’s Support and Validation

Ellen Pompeo, who famously portrayed Meredith Grey, stood by her co-star, offering a comforting perspective. Pompeo defended Heigl, stating, “You were just a little early,” acknowledging that social media and public commentary have evolved to embrace outspoken opinions—something that Heigl’s critics failed to understand at the time.

Grey’s Anatomy Speculation: A Potential Return of Sandra Oh?

Meanwhile, fans have turned their attention to Sandra Oh and a mysterious social media clue. The Grey’s Anatomy Instagram account followed Oh for the first time in November, prompting fans to speculate whether Cristina Yang could make a return. Additionally, the official account posted a collage from Season 10 with a cryptic caption hinting at her emotional exit.

Though nothing is confirmed, the speculation surrounding Cristina Yang’s return has fueled the fire for long-time fans. The show returns from its mid-season break on January 8, so viewers will have to wait and see if their wishes are fulfilled.