Few names in television carry as much weight as Shonda Rhimes. As the creator of hit television shows like “Scandal,” “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Bridgerton,” Rhimes is as influential as they come. Through complex characters, and giving people of color enriching acting and character opportunities, Rhimes has become famous for offering amazing roles and storylines.  

  Rhimes first rose to prominence in 2005 with the debut of “Grey’s Anatomy.” What began as a medical drama centered on surgical interns quickly became a cultural sensation. The series has been famous and running for over twenty years, and big celebrities like Ellen Pompeo have worshiped Rhimes’s talent and hard work. “Grey’s Anatomy” remains one of the longest-running scripted shows in television history.

  She followed that success with “Scandal,” a fast-paced political thriller starring Kerry Washington as crisis manager Olivia Pope. The show broke barriers by featuring a Black woman as the lead in a major network drama for the first time in nearly 40 years. Kerry Washington’s character was especially significant to her time, as seeing Black women in lead roles and powerhouses in television shows was rarer in past years. 

Rhimes also tends to feature interracial relationships in her television shows, which are refreshing to finally see on screen. Rhimes also always makes sure to do her research, as she worked with a White House consultant on “Scandal” and made it a hit. “Scandal” remains important to the media, heavily contributing to culture. When I first watched “Scandal,” I remembered being happy I finally got to see a Black woman play the lead role and do it so well. Rhimes’s credibility and hard work is what makes her so powerful. 

  With the new hit of “Bridgerton,” Rhimes has created a magical and royal world highlighting all types of people, romances, and intriguing, deep and funny stories. With the fancy dresses, British ambience, classy balls and events, Rhimes managed to keep the emotional intensity of a show. While the time period can be confusing, it is exciting to see so many people of color being in lead romantic roles and Rhimes continues to break down any harmful stereotypes. 

Rhimes continued her streak previously with “How to Get Away with Murder,” produced by her own company Shondaland and starring Viola Davis. The legal drama earned Davis an Emmy Award, making her the first Black woman to win Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Rhimes’s work was proven to have a lasting impact. 

Beyond ratings and awards, Rhimes’s greatest impact may be in representation. Her shows consistently feature diverse casts, multifaceted female leads who break stereotypes and represent strength, and unique characters. She has created spaces for stories that were once sidelined in mainstream media, and has given platforms and voices to characters played by mostly fantastic people, influencing a great amount of writers and producers.

Rhimes is also an author, speaker and advocate for inclusion in Hollywood. In her memoir, “Year of Yes,” she reflects on stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing new opportunities, an inspirational journey as well. 

From hospital hallways to the White House to Regency ballrooms, Shonda Rhimes has been a queen of storytelling, producing, writing, representation and creativity. Her work, no matter how old, continues to get people’s attention from all around the world.