'Grey's Anatomy' star unveils star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

Ellen Pompeo, the star of the record-breaking hit series "Grey's Anatomy," has just joined the ranks of celebrities honored by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. The 55-year-old actress's star unveiling ceremony was attended by her closest family - her husband and two of their three children. "It took me a long time to get here, but these things don't happen overnight," Pompeo said.

On April 29, Ellen Pompeo unveiled her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The iconic walk stretching along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles' Hollywood district is, for good reason, one of the city's top tourist attractions. It features more than 2,800 five-pointed stars that have honored esteemed celebrities since 1960. It recently added stars honoring Gal Gadot, Christina Ricci, and Michelle Yeoh.

"We celebrate Ellen's talent and lasting impact on the entertainment industry, as well as her extraordinary dedication to the show she has enriched with her presence for over 20 years," Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez said in a statement.

The unveiling of the actress's commemorative plaque was attended by her closest family members. The screen star was accompanied by her husband, music producer Chris Ivery , and two of their three children - 15-year-old Stella and 8-year-old Eli. 10-year-old Sienna, however, did not attend the ceremony.

In her speech, Pompeo expressed gratitude to her longtime colleagues.

- It took me a long time to get here, but these things don't happen overnight. It takes a village. I was very lucky to be surrounded by true stars throughout my career - people who are talented and do their job brilliantly. However, these people rarely get the attention they deserve, they are not talked about, they are not photographed. I would not have achieved success without my wonderful team, who have been working with me for a long time and have been constantly supporting me, even in difficult times. Thank you for that, I love you - said the 55-year-old actress.

The series' Meredith Grey also thanked the creator of "Grey's Anatomy", influential Hollywood producer Shonda Rhimes.

"I never thought I'd be where I am today. And I'm here because of the wonderful, supportive people in my life. Shonda made it possible for me to have a career and earn money without giving up motherhood. I don't know many actresses who have had the privilege of being surrounded by brilliant women. I have," Pompeo said.

The actress has been on Grey's Anatomy since 2005. Unlike many of her colleagues, instead of developing her acting portfolio and pursuing new professional challenges, the star focused on stability and financial security. Considering her impressive earnings, it's no wonder. In 2017, Pompeo was named the highest-paid woman in the television industry , receiving a salary of $20 million per year.