It's been over a decade since Shonda Rhimes introduced audiences to Fitz and Olivia's chemistry-filled relationship on Scandal. But according to Tony Goldwyn, who plays President Fitzgerald Grant III in the political drama, his connection to the show's creator goes much deeper than that.
Talking to PEOPLE while promoting his new role on Law & Order , Godwin surprisingly revealed how a previous collaboration with Rhimes "turned things around" in time for Scandal.
During his Grey's Anatomy days
It turns out that Godwin and Rhimes first worked together on Grey's Anatomy Season 1 — and no, you can't forget the guest role (but come to think of it... wouldn't Goldwin become a Excellent surgeon?). His work actually happens behind the scenes, and he directed a few episodes early on in the show.
The first episode where people noticed him was the third episode of Season 1, right after George and Izzie moved to Meredith. So he was actually involved in some very nostalgic moments on Grey's Anatomy .
"And then I hadn't seen her in eight years, and she suddenly thought, 'Wow, Tony would be an interesting choice for Fitz.'" "Tony, do you want to play the president in my new show?" Gold said. Wen recalled to People magazine.
The actor said, "Why not?" Well, television history was made.
Godwin has previously discussed his decision to join Scandal . Not only was he excited about Rhimes' creative direction, but he was also excited about the opportunity to work with Kerry Washington. “I’m so impressed with her work, everything she does, and knowing her socially and admiring her so much — the combination of Shonda and Kerry is overwhelming,” Godwin told Collider in 2012. Adding that saying "yes" "sounds like a good bet." Gladiators would agree!
Shondaland cast
If you're a die-hard Shondaland fan, you know that the prolific producer enjoys working with many familiar faces across her television empire. For example, Liza Weil and Scott Foley were both patients on Grey's Anatomy before moving from Seattle to Washington, D.C. Years after saying goodbye to "Scandal," Katie Lowes plays Rachel in Netflix's " Inventing Anna."
Even Rhimes's short-lived play For the People served as the catalyst for Rége-Jean Page to star in a short drama called Bridgerton .
"They're both extremely talented guys and I love working with them and they deliver without question every time, they're chameleons," Rhimes told the Journal about her "travel players" in 2022 ” or repeat star.
