Whether you watch the TV series Grey’s Anatomy or not, you will no doubt have heard of McDreamy and McSteamy. The terms have become a part of everyday lingo. The medical drama, set in a Seattle Grace Hospital, Washington, has become a household name for more than the just on-screen drama however.  

The cast

Ellen Pompeo stars as Meredith Grey, the main character of the show whose mother penned the famous anatomical study called Grey’s Anatomy before succumbing to Alzheimer’s. She is supported by a cast of fellow interns, including best friend Christina, played by Sandra Oh, and Izzie Stevens, played by Katherine Heigl, as well as residents. 

The controversy

The cast behind have the show have become as famous for various controversies as for their acting abilities. 

Isaiah Washington, who played cardio-thoracic surgeon Preston Burke, was written out of the show in season four after allegedly using a homosexual slur against fellow cast member TJ Knight, who played George O’Malley. 

Knight later had his turn in the media spotlight when rumours surfaced that there was tension between himself and the show’s producer Shonda Rimes over the way his character was developing. Knight’s character made only brief appearances during season five and was critically injured in the last show of the season. 

According to recurring rumours, Heigl is contemplating leaving the show in the wake of her burgeoning film career. Viewers will have to wait in suspense to find out, however, as Heigl’s character was found to have a life-threatening case of cancer in season five. 

There is more than enough on-screen drama to watch medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. If, however, the romantic and platonic entanglements are not enough to keep you glued to the screen, the off-screen tensions should keep you entertained.