Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Shonda Rhimes on Self-Censorship and Creative Control
Shonda Rhimes, the creator of hit shows like Bridgerton and Grey's Anatomy, feels that people in the entertainment industry might be holding back on what they say and do because of worries about how it might be received, especially if Donald Trump is in office.
She shared her experience of leaving the Kennedy Center board and social media after feeling they were no longer aligned with her views.
Rhimes also talked about how she focuses on telling good stories, rather than trying to make shows just to get the most views, and wants her company, Shondaland, to be her lasting impact on the world.
Shonda Rhimes discusses self-censorship concerns in U.S. storytelling, particularly during a potential second Trump term.
Rhimes expressed unease regarding potential self-censorship at networks, though she has agency over her work.
Rhimes resigned from the Kennedy Center board after Trump appointed himself as chairman, no longer aligned with the board's mission.
Rhimes shared her decision to leave Twitter/X after Elon Musk's takeover and discussed her disdain for thinking about her work in franchise terms.
Rhimes's company, Shondaland, is her legacy goal and she plans to continue storytelling for as long as she wants.
- Who
- Shonda Rhimes, a television writer and producer.
- What
- Shonda Rhimes shares insights on self-censorship in storytelling, her Kennedy Center board exit, and future creative goals.
- When
- Recently, at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
- Where
- Edinburgh TV Festival.
- Why
- Rhimes discussed her observations on industry trends and shared her perspective on creative freedom and artistic legacy.
Concerns About Self-Censorship
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Self-Censorship in Storytelling
Concerns About Self-Censorship
Expresses that there is genuine self-censorship going on in the entertainment industry.
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- Series
- Bridgerton, Grey's Anatomy, Scandal
- Network
- ABC, Netflix
- Company
- Shondaland
- Event
- Edinburgh TV Festival