Brooke Smith's 'Grey's Anatomy' ouster is not right and not okay

julia Sun, May 17, 2009 at 10:05 AM EST

Okay, I personally liked the Callie-Erica relationship when they were just coming out. But then Shonda Rhimes made their story line so awkward and cringe-worthy when watching that I lost interest in them as a couple. IMO the whole "glasses and leaves" speech too icky and I think the way SR wrote them as a couple leads to disasters. The only way to fix the problem was for her to let go of BS and start anew with a new character Arizona whom I absolutely love and adore. So I don't think ABC is homophobic, they have plenty of gay characters on other shows, it's just that the writing for the couple doesn't lead anywhere, so they need to start fresh. What I don't understand was why she was FIRED, because to be fired, the actress would've to be done something wrong and to my best knowledge, BS didn't, she just portrayed the character. IW was fired for what he said, but BS shouldn't have been fired, they could've chosen not to renew her contract next season or be laid off. Not fired.

Debbie Sun, Mar 15, 2009 at 04:36 AM EST

After I posted I begin to read more of the comments here and you all are quite funny. There are no morals on this show at all. But you choose to get all hollier than thou over the lesbian story line. Adultry runs rampid through that hospital. But that is just great. Cause those wonderful people are all straight/normal people. But you let 2 women have what 3 kisses and they (talk) about having sex and you all go freaking off. What good standards you all have. As long as you aren't gay/lesbian. You can run all over the hospital and have sex with whoever you want to. But don't be gay/lesbian that is immoral. I say if the lesbian story line is stopped than all sex should be stopped from this show. Have a show about the medicine and the family's of the people that work in the hospital. That would make everyone happy? You moral people would really love that one?

Debbie Sun, Mar 15, 2009 at 03:38 AM EST

It has been months since Brooke Smith was fired. But let me say I'm still as pissed as I was the first day I heard of her firing. I was thrilled when I first seen Brooke on Grey's. I was like OMG it is Kate Switzer from Crossing Jordan. At the time I didn't know Miss Smiths name. But as I begin to watch this wonderful woman act. I knew I had to find out everything I could about her. So as of now, I think I have pretty much read everything on the internet and watched every interview and show she has done. She is amazing. I'm looking forward to the new project she is working on. I hope we get to see it soon. Love ya Brooke!!!

lucy Sat, Feb 21, 2009 at 10:32 PM EST

Huh!! Hahaha..!!
well..first of all I'm straight *had to say it to cut any argue*
second: HOW COME YOU PEOPLE "AT ABC" KEEP BUGGING ABOUT THE LESBIAN STORYLINE AND CUT OUT ONE OF THE MOST GREAT ACTRESSES AND THEN YOU CAST TWO GUYS TO PLAY GAY STORYLINE ..AND.. START IT WITH A VERY PASSIONATE KISS??!! HOW IRONIC IS THIS???!!!

Renee Sat, Feb 21, 2009 at 01:23 AM EST

I'm not going to write alot ,, I think the folk here did a very VERY good job.
but I only have these two little words to say:
1# Brooke smith If you can read this (you are an AMAZING woman and a very Talented actress ,, I love you)
2# I'm not a lesbian But I have a gay sister so I'm all for it "the lesbian storyline" and to be reasnable here: the gay community now is a BIG part in our whole nation so we have to change and break the DIFFERENCE between us!!!

ADELINE BUETTNER Sat, Jan 31, 2009 at 02:45 PM EST

BROOK MADE ME WANT TO WATCH BECAUSE SOMETHING WAS ALWAYS GOING TO HAPPEN
WHEN SHE STOOD UP FOR HER BELIEFS I LOVED TO WACTCH THE SHOW WHEN SHE WAS ON MY DAUGHTER DOES NOT LIKE THE SHOW SINCE SHE LEFT IM LIKE THE SHOW VERY MUCH I DONT LIKE YANG BUT SLOAN IS GREAT I LIKED ERICA AND SLOAN INTERACTED THEY WERE GREAT IM SORRY THAT SHES GONE .

regina buettner Sat, Jan 31, 2009 at 02:33 PM EST

ERICA AND CALLIE WERE SO GOOD TOGETHER
IN TILL ERICA SAID SOMETHING THAT
HAPPINED BEFORE SHE CAME TO SEATTLE
GRACE AND GOT ALL MAD NOT VEARY COOL

Brenda Tue, Dec 9, 2008 at 12:25 AM EST

As a Dutch I couldn't find the right words, but Nicks (Thanks) said what I meant.

Characterization is a problem and difficult thing in US series (as far as all the popular US series i have seen and showed here in Holland).
In Seattle Grace everyone goes from bed to bed, and some characters are beyond realism (I am glad they are not my Dr. ;), but one of the strongest and most believable characters has to shut her mouth.

GA is over for me!

Brenda

nicks Mon, Dec 8, 2008 at 07:55 AM EST

Brooke Smith's character gave Grey's a fresh face, a new and well needed look. I can't believe she is gone. I just cannot bring myself to watch it anymore. Erica Hahn was a very stong, outspoken, and not afraid to claim her place anong the boys. It is sad that in 2008 we still haven't come to terms with women being this strong and assertive, pushing the boundaries of stereotypes and gender and heteronormative behaviour. Erica was a complex character and I personally liked her from the beginning in spite of this, becuase I felt that eventually her story would be played out and unfold and we would come to understand her better. I think as fans of Grery's we deserved to have seen her story unfold in a meaniful way. I also believe that the callie-erica relationship was a start in beginning to understand and warm up to Erica's charater and to see a softer genlter side to her...to bring meaning to the character outside of the OR, and! while everyone around her is sex crazed and horny, bed hopping and all. Didn't she deserve a little play...a litte taste from the buffet at Seattle Grace? or was it expected to be served straight! Erica I miss you...for you Brooke - looking forward to seeing you very soon in something new. You are a great actor...let ABC and Shonda, if she really cares, kiss your ASS! In fact they should really...and your feet too, because you probably brought them alot of ratings...and personally and from what I have read (from other Erica fans), YOU ROCKED!!!!

Brenda Sat, Dec 6, 2008 at 02:20 AM EST

Again the American story writers/networks (whoever did it) fails and disappoints me!

A strong and beautiful character, dismissed because she felt in love...

Brenda
(netherlands)

MissHahn Wed, Dec 3, 2008 at 02:07 PM EST

I miss HAHN! Brooke Smith was a great addition to the show. For all those who thought she was not good for Grey's Anatomy -- well, the actor can only do so much with what their given -- The writers could have done better with her character. They never brought us into Hahn's world. Thus people had a harder time connecting with her. But as far as what we did get out of Brooke Smith - it was fantastic and I'm sure it would have gotten even better. Very Disappointed with ABC!

Cindy Sat, Nov 29, 2008 at 06:40 PM EST

I was really enjoying the storyline with Erica and Callie. It was original and fresh. The show isn't the same without it.

Matilda Wed, Nov 26, 2008 at 04:11 PM EST

I agree with you Slezak. I really liked Erica Hanh, Brooke Smith was the BEST actress they had on the show! they have made a BIG misstake!!!
I'm so done with Grey's Anatomy. They all Lost it!

trixie Wed, Nov 26, 2008 at 07:14 AM EST

BRING BACK BROOKE!!!!! STUPID SHONDA RHIMES!!!

PJP Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 05:00 PM EST

I've watched Grey's Anatomy since the first episode. I'm sad to see such a once-wonderful show descend to such a pathetic piece of crap. Brooke Smith was amazing as Dr. Hahn. I loved the "boys night out" episode where she infiltrates the good old boys club. As a hospital employee with 21 years experience in surgery, I found her sangfroid totally believable. The vulnerability Smith displayed in the "glasses" scene was also quite astounding. If you got rid of actors when the chemistry in a relationship wasn't right, TR Knight and Katherine Heigl would be long gone.

If a ghost can come back to GA, why can't Brooke Smith? Even as an adversary to the hospital, she'd bring a welcome breath of sanity to what's become Ghost meets General Hospital.

PJP Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 05:00 PM EST

I've watched Grey's Anatomy since the first episode. I'm sad to see such a once-wonderful show descend to such a pathetic piece of crap. Brooke Smith was amazing as Dr. Hahn. I loved the "boys night out" episode where she infiltrates the good old boys club. As a hospital employee with 21 years experience in surgery, I found her sangfroid totally believable. The vulnerability Smith displayed in the "glasses" scene was also quite astounding. If you got rid of actors when the chemistry in a relationship wasn't right, TR Knight and Katherine Heigl would be long gone.

If a ghost can come back to GA, why can't Brooke Smith? Even as an adversary to the hospital, she'd bring a welcome breath of sanity to what's become Ghost meets General Hospital.

Anna Thu, Nov 20, 2008 at 12:45 AM EST

Bring her back!!! We love her! This was outrageous!

Jen Wed, Nov 19, 2008 at 01:31 AM EST

agreed- FIRE LEXIE; she is SO LAME!

meg Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 07:51 PM EST

I just can't believe that they fired her just because of the story line. that's just silly and stupid. Brooke is amazing and scared the crap out of me as Dr. Hahn (in a good way for tv). I don't care if she was gay or straight. Her discovering another side to herself was beautiful and fun. I'm very sorry she is off the show. Her being so angry because of what Lizzy did with the heart was going to be a very good dramatic story line. Gray's Anatomy choose a ghost love story over Lizzy getting in serious trouble. GA really missed the boat on some good writting opportunities. Brooke, don't worry. You were awesome and GA are the real losers in this situation.

DEE Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 06:10 PM EST

First of all i loved Dr Hahn,and not because she was a lesbian. She was a great actress and an awesome character and i think it is so sad that she got fired because some people are so F***ing ignorant and can't deal with a gay storyline. What century are you living in people! It is ok to be gay and it is ok for there to be a lesbian character in Greys! Gosh it makes the show better! And if you have such a problem with living in a time where gayness is accepted, go to therapy cause u have issues!

Tammy B Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 10:40 PM EST

I love this show, but the lezbo stuff was tough to watch. Brookes character was a good tough female and I like that, I would say that the writers are to blame for screwing that up with a gay plot line. The show is turning into a "boink fest" guess there are no limits anymore. Too bad they had to lose a good character.

Not again! Wed, Nov 12, 2008 at 06:59 PM EST

I'm a straight married woman and I liked the relationship between Hahn and Callie. They had chemistry and showed they were new to this yet something drew them to each other.

Hahn was a tough woman -- very similar to Burke's tough and not very warm guy. The character is very good at what she does and she has the demeanor to go with it. C'mon!

Brooke Smith has been wonderful in everything I've seen her in including Crossing Jordan and Series 7. I hate that she keeps losing jobs. Her acting is so good that she has had me hating her, liking her, making me laugh. That's talent.

To Teri Wed, Nov 12, 2008 at 12:32 PM EST

"The antics of the gays"?? How about the antics of the immoral straight characters? Are those appropriate for the family hour?

V Tue, Nov 11, 2008 at 05:36 PM EST

Mina, just because something is different from your life and beliefs, doesn't mean it is abnormal. Maybe you're the abnormal one, and you've been taught differently your entire life. The bottom line is, YOU do not get to decide what is and isn't normal for the rest of the world. You should keep your judgments to yourself.

Tue, Nov 11, 2008 at 10:50 AM EST

The U.S is a scary country to me...Though a little less scary now that you elected Obama. But how can some people not see the similarities here - that once interracial relationships were as inapropriate and unnatural as gay relationships are today?? Brooke Smith played a strong, kickass gay woman, sensitive yet made no apologies for herself, and she did it well. There is no other possibility than that that fact played a part in her being fired. Say it didn't, it still is a slap in the face to the lgbt community and to women in general I must say, and they chose to ignore that. Only Obama gives me hope

CG Tue, Nov 11, 2008 at 03:55 AM EST

Mina, who on earth are you to decide what is and isn't normal? The problem here isn't what is and isn't so-called NORMAL, but the fact that some people are just so darn ignorant and unaccepting of anything different to what they know.

mina Tue, Nov 11, 2008 at 02:03 AM EST

It is not NORMAL if you choose to be gay stay in the closet and stop trying to make it acceptable it is not NORMAL it is like the drug addict trying to make it legal just so that they can continue with their ilicit life style.....

Kisha Tue, Nov 11, 2008 at 12:47 AM EST

When I really thought about it, I actually didn't have a problem with Dr. Hahn's character or her being gay...I had a problem with Callie all of a sudden turning gay. I didn't like that abrupt story line. I felt that it cheapened the show. I'm not a fan of gay story lines, but in this case it's not what bothers me most about the show. I didn't like this storyline with Callie. Honestly, I have more issues about how all the characters are running around having sex with each other. I like how the Chief is trying to clean things up.....

VAPARADOX Mon, Nov 10, 2008 at 09:50 PM EST

DEAR TERRI,
Read your post about "family hour" and
how fed up with "gay themed TV" you are. May I suggest a few therapy sessions on homophobia and pull your nose out of your Bible? We see kissing, making out, and all sorts of PDA on the television 24/7, do you criticize the heterosexuals on tv shows for doing that? If you believe that homosexuality is wrong, that just makes you uninformed, dillusional, judgemental, and well,,,
small minded. We dont whine when "your people" make out on TV, so stop acting as though its fine for you and your children to watch that, yet for someone else in love, thats not acceptable...

Teri Mon, Nov 10, 2008 at 06:11 PM EST

I'm so tired of being "slapped" in the face with the antics of the gays in television. I thought that the racy stuff was for the 9:00 hour, now I see it on at 8:00 when it was considered "family" hour. As far as Hahn's abrupt exit from "Gay's Anatomy"-Thank goodnes, now I can watch one of my favorite shows without feeling like I'm in the minority for not "embracing" the gay storylines.

joules Mon, Nov 10, 2008 at 05:50 PM EST

Am I the only one who liked Dr. Hahn? Last season (when Hahn & Torres were just friends), when she dropped her prickly persona for a moment to admit to Callie, "I'm socially awkward, and I don't make friends easily." I wept with recognition -- I'm like that too! I thought her character was a great contrast for the other characters, esp. Dr. Bailey. They had some great scenes disagreeing with each other about how to be a good doctor. I was surprised to find that I actually liked the love story with Callie. I thought it had interesting potential, espiecailly once the other doctors knew about it. The scenes where Callie asks Bailey for advice were wonderfully funny and touching. Plus, I was sure that a sexy show like Grey's would give us a threesome with Erica, Callie & Sloan for November sweeps. Those of you who prefer more wholesome programming can watch something else - that's why God created remote controls!

amanda Mon, Nov 10, 2008 at 04:44 PM EST

whats gonna happen to Torez is she going to go back to sleeping with Mr. Steamy?? thats not fun. the relationship between the two women was the hottest thing on that show. i cannot watch Mr.Dreamy and Meredith break up again and get back together only to break up again and get back together..... do you see where im going with this???

Monee Mon, Nov 10, 2008 at 09:54 AM EST

So you fire I. Washington for anti-gay remarks...and you fire Hahn for her gay character. Somebody at ABC needs to figure out what side they are batting for and quit taking it out on talented actors!

Lisa H. Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 08:57 PM EST

Quote: "I have not watched Grey's since the first episode this season. Although I think Brooke is fine actor, I do not agree with what the show was promoting. I am glad that I will once again be able to watch the show without something that I find morally unacceptable being shoved in my face."

People with "acceptable morals" have been shoving their opinion in my face for years. Get over it people. Gay people are not going away. You may not like it, but you have to share the planet with us. And, that includes sharing network television as well.

I respect and fully support Brooke Smith in the role she played. We need more people like her who are willing to stand up for what is right.

misfit Sat, Nov 8, 2008 at 08:27 PM EST

I liked Hahn's character. I liked the story line with her and Callie. However, they could easily have made them simply move on to other partners. I find the sexual innuendo with Sloan much more tasteless and boring. The reason I liked Hahn is because she was very realistic in her role as a female surgeon. I've worked in the O.R. for years and her depiction was pretty accurate. And yes, surgeons are verbally abusive so, that is not unrealistic. In fact, they are so abusive at times that hospitals are required this year to put into place policies and procedures to end it in order to be accredited. You have no idea what goes on in the O.R. It is stressful for everyone.

jennab Sat, Nov 8, 2008 at 05:40 PM EST

Add my voice to the chorus of folks who didn't like the Hahn/Callie relationships...funny enough, I thought for SURE, Hahn would get together with Cristina. That would have been great! There was no chemistry with Callie, but I agree, they could have let the characters break up and bring on a new love interest for Hahn and one for Callie. Clear ABC was uncomfortable with relationship...they gave more time to Callie "practicing" with Sloan.

Sheri Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 08:59 PM EST

I HATE ERICA HAHN! I am glad she is off the show. The character was a hateful hag and the story line was forced and played out. Good Riddens!!

stephanie Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 08:32 PM EST

i thought the callie/erica thing had great potential but then it went all downhill from there. i felt it was too forced and awkward and didn't make any sense. it was such a shame too, because i thought it was actually going to be worth watching. i personally do not like dr. hahn at all, but still, this was pretty shocking.

on another note,
PLEASE GET RID OF LEXIE!!!

Donna Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 07:53 PM EST

I was not so into the story line between her and Callie but her character was what kept me watching Grey's Anatomy. The ethics her character had was what this show needed, not some snotty little brats that don't represent doctors well.

J Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 06:51 PM EST

Support Brooke on facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php? gid=37725050755

J Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 06:45 PM EST

Here's a facebook group link:
sign up and support Brooke

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=37725050755

Im boycotting Disney too, i think i'll take an Olivia cruise instead.

Delon Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 05:21 PM EST

I wasn't going ga-ga for the lesbian storyline, but i liked Erica's character right from the start when she was giving a hard time to Burke 2 seasons ago.She should stay. She is the only one at Seattle Grace who doesn't buy into all that petty games.

anonymous viewer Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 04:48 PM EST

I, too, did not appreciate having a situation I find morally repugnant shoved in my face. I stopped watching the show because it was just too much and too offensive. I'm not wild about the other characters' sexual activities being the focus of the show either (and for the same reasons).

That aside, Erica Hahn WAS just a mean, rigid, two-dimensional character who added little to the show. I'm hoping that the shift to focus more on the medicine, on the characters' adaptations to their chosen careers and their search for how to find a life after medical school while achieving success in such a demanding profession will bring stronger performances from all of the actors and actresses in the cast.

tracy Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 04:47 PM EST

Just send the girl back to "WEEDS"..I liked her better on that show anyway!!!!

monica Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 04:32 PM EST

while i agree that it's uncool the way they fired her, i don't actually like Erica Hahn or her attitude problems. Christina being bitchy is one thing, but Hahn had a stick up her butt so I'm happy to see her character go. I don't have any problems with seeing a lesbian relationship on TV, I just don't like her.

cait Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 04:28 PM EST

Personally, I think ABC went too far this time. If cutting Brooke Smith from the show wasn't due to the fact that she played a lesbian, what was the reason? I'm sure millions (myself included) would love to know. For some people, I'm sure they're glad she's gone, but for the rest of us, we're extremely disappointed, not only because she represented something new, but because Brooke Smith is an incredibly talented actress. I think in the last season, Grey's started to get a little boring, and Callie and Erica experiencing something new gave the show life again. I'm not sure how ABC will recover from this, or even if they will.

Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 03:18 PM EST

Sorry everyone! I am glad she is gone! I didn't like the Character from the first time she showed up in the hospital.

Elizabeth Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 02:11 PM EST

I have not watched Grey's since the first episode this season. Although I think Brooke is fine actor, I do not agree with what the show was promoting. I am glad that I will once again be able to watch the show without something that I find morally unacceptable being shoved in my face.

Elizabeth K Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 10:20 AM EST

FOR ABC:

Dumb move. Watch your ratings tank now. Erica Hahn was the zest and luster you lacked with Meredith and Lexie and their crazy BS and oh.......what about Dr Sloan bedding everyone that walks. Perhaps you should fire your untalented writers and develop more of Erica's character. There is tons there to develop. You finally had a character that was not some ditzy female trying to psychoanalyze herself. And by the way..... George's story is old too.

Brooke Smith is talented and I hope one the other other networks pick her up soon and shows it opposite Grey's.

If you didn't Hahn's story line , then change it. We're all tired of Meredith's whining, George's bumbling ( and he is a great actor) , and Izzy's craziness.

Nicole Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 09:00 AM EST

ABC - you've just lost a viewer. Grey's isn't nearly as good as it used to be - Erica and Callie's relationship was the best thing about the show at the moment. It was handled very well, and was also one of the most realistic depictions on TV of that kind of self discovery. The only characters left that I actually like are Sloan and Callie - everybody else annoys the crap out of me. This show is done.

Disappointed Viewer Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 03:59 AM EST

This is just horrible. I really thought Erica and Callie had chemistry. Both Brooke and Sara are great actresses and they really sold the relationship to me, a straight woman. I only mention that I am straight because I thought Hollywood executives should know that there are not just gay people disappointed to see the Erica and Callie relationship over, but there are a lot of people in general disappointed not to see the Erica and Callie relationship unfold. There was so much potential and Erica's revelation to Callie last week was one of the best scenes I've seen on TV. ABC, don't be afraid to portray gay and lesbian relationships.

Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 02:31 AM EST

I think this lesbian story created funny scenes with Callie. For example when she talked about it with Bailey or Mark.

SassQueenKass Fri, Nov 7, 2008 at 01:35 AM EST

Erica Hanh's character should have been left back in Season 2. PERIOD. Although Brooke is a talented actress, her role on Grey's was just an angry, bitter and mean person thrown into the mix as a replacement for Burke.

gail mccracken Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 10:48 PM EST

i really like grey's anatomy if icould only hear the dialogue. the music is so loud i can't understand anything. please,please turn down the ear spliting music.

gail mccracken Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 10:44 PM EST

i love grey's anatomy,if i could only hear the dialogue, the music is so loud!! i can't hear anything but loud,loud music!!

Lookelou Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 10:44 PM EST

I was so disgusted at the lesbian scene. It was enough for me to stop watching the show. Some people don't like it poked down our throats. I'm sure I'll be flamed for this fan is glad for the decision. It was a barf scene.

fan49 Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 06:58 PM EST

Many of you Brooke Smith fans are upset that she's been fired. Honestly, I think she was doing an awesome job of acting the part of a heart surgeon (this coming from a nurse). I also think she pulled off the "needing glasses" scene (even though I don't support having that type of relationship on TV). But, it was such a pyscho/stalker mentally weird, weird scene that we all were left with oh my gosh................. what just happened (talk about major drama). From that ABC knew they couldn't recreate her a new role so they had to fire her. I've seen Brooke in other films and I think very highly of her acting skills. This is the reason ABC hired her in the first place. But, it also boils down to ratings and the fans are not happy with the script of Callie and Erica.

catrina Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 02:19 PM EST

peace out ABC! one more viewer lost (and my whole family) because you guys are intolerant fucks! love brooke smith, love hahn...she was the only reason i still watched the ailing grey's! best of luck to brooke and her family.

R&O Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 11:48 AM EST

Oh, this is right & okay. Very right, very okay. Insignificant show. Banal storyline. And ... this type of material belongs on premium cable channels. When will we hit the bottom regarding the level of disgusting filth we will watch?

Cyn Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 07:48 AM EST

Fine if some of the American don't like the lesbian story line, but it's the writer's problem, why should ABC fires a great actress?
It's 2008, be open-minded.

Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 02:39 AM EST

Erica Hahn was a great character. Grey's Anatomy just lost a viewer.

FlyByNight97 Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 12:56 AM EST

Perhaps they should create a spinoff for Burke and Hahn where they have angry sex; then he calls her a f*g, so she kills him, and then flees to California, where she hooks up with Addison, and then ABC pulls the plug on that, and we're stuck watching Private Practice another two seasons.

That being said, I won't miss Hahn. She didn't mesh well with any of the characters -- Callie included. I felt like that their relationship was very forced, and I think she has far more chemistry with Sloan.

I also felt the explicit dialogue two episodes ago was really inappropriate and made me cringe. I don't want to hear about "cuisine" or anything like it.

Susan Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 12:49 AM EST

Thank you for writing this. ABC is clueless. I do hope Brooke Smith should win an Emmy for this scene.

Matt Thu, Nov 6, 2008 at 12:27 AM EST

The lesbian storyline did absolutely nothing for the show positive or negative. One thing we can judge by is what all of our friends that watch the show agree upon, and all of my friends agree they are glad that storyline is officially ending. There are way too many more interesting things happening on the show to allow it to turn into boredom tv for that slack storyline. ABC should trust what ordinary people say who follow and love the show, not the rants of tv critics, and others who have their own hidden agendas.

Shonna Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 11:59 PM EST

I wanted to comment on a few things that others have said...
--if you want more "comedy" over "sex" go watch a sitcom this show is meant to be a "drama" and those are based on powerful human intimate relationships that because we are meant to be sensual and emotional and sexual being, aspects of sex and sexuality are gonna be very very basic aspects of the story and plotlines.
--that being said... dramas then must show all types of human relationships for example: hetrosexual and homosexual, mixed races, and there was even drama about married people that have open marriages aka swingers; there are dramas with extended families, husbands with mistrisses and kids born out the marriage. You have shows on showtimes like californication where the character is a known sex addict and addmitted whore yet had a family, and you have the lesbians on the L word, hell you have the vampires and the fangbangers on true blood... all types of relationships with sex as the bottonline for tv dramas.

Captain America Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 10:42 PM EST

Actually that was probably the single worst 3 minutes in the history of Grey's Anatomy. She sucks, her character sucks, and they aren't getting rid of her because of the gay story line, they are getting rid of her because she doesn't fit the show. There has been way too much mushy crap lately and not enough hospital action. I think Grey's has officially jumped the shark.

rick Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 10:06 PM EST

so apparently abc can fire a guy for saying derrogatory things about a cast member but its not ok for the shows writers to decide to take the show in a different direction - wow

Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 09:25 PM EST

I'm g;ad to see that story line over. While I do not know any of Brooke's other work, her character was a downer. Angry sums "Hahn" up. I wish her luck in her future. Let's get back to basic's it was a show about doctors helping people right?

Sue Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 08:51 PM EST

America is in trouble if this is the yuk we have to watch. Lets get back to good programs. Maybe some humor instead of sex.

FrenchFan Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 07:33 PM EST

If the problem was the storyline or the lack of chemistry, why don't they make them split and keep Brooke on the show, like they did for Izzie and George ?

Jennifer Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 06:50 PM EST

Unfortunately, Erica was a very unsympathetic character. She was mean to everyone for no reason at all.
Aside from that, the problem with the show is sloppy writing. The writing was so bad that the scenes between Callie and Erica made me cringe. The writers did a really lousy job, especially with all those allusions to the female anatomy. They are the ones who should be fired for their awful writing which is making people fast-forward through this show. Poor Brooke Smith got caught in all this mess.

Claire Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 06:08 PM EST

So annoyed at this! If you want to protest about Brooke's firing from the show, there's a petition going at -

http://www.petitionspot.com/petitions/hope4hahn

DocCovington Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 05:38 PM EST

Dear Brooke,

Erica Hahn will be sorely missed, but we are hoping to see you soon again! - Do not let this devastating experience drag you down and away from the world of movie and television making.

You are a great actress, a sweet person and - despite some people's lousy opinion - a fascinating woman to watch on-screen. =)

- a fan from Austria

fan49 Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 04:29 PM EST

To kate, no I don't let my children watch late night shows. I censure everything they watch even cartoons. My worry comes from those whose children do actually watch this stuff while their parents are doing their own thing. I do know many parents who are unconcerned with screening TV time, especially with teenagers.
To: t3hdow, yes we are all sinners and have alot to learn. I have a step-sister who is a lesbian. She is welcome in my home and we have a relationship, there is also a mutual respect for our choices. But, I will stand my ground and say that we don't need nor want to see the very explicit dialog going on. The converstations with Dr. Bailey and the Vajajay make me sick. I don't hear that kindof dialog between McSteamy and McDreamy. It's not just a coincidence that most fans didn't appreciate the new plot. I started watching Grey's for the medical aspect and some interesting relationships. If I wanted a gay/lesbian show I would be watching Brother's and Sisters.

Mary Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 04:11 PM EST

This show jumped the shark a long time ago. It's repulsive what's been done. Brooke Smith deserves better than this.

Ex-Vegan Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 04:08 PM EST

Kana, you hit the nail right on the head! Isiah Washington definitely has the last laugh on this one.

So, if they truly want to fix Grey's Anatomy, here are my suggestions:
- Get rid of Alex. His constant brooding is really tiresome. At first, he was snarky. Now, he's just an jerk.
- Give Christina a REAL nemesis, a female one.
-Get rid that Army guy. He's a jerk, also, and I have no interest in seeing a romantic entanglement between him and Christina.
-Bring the storylines back to how they were in the first two seasons: it's about the patient and the helplessness that the doctors-in-training cope with.

IMHO, Grey's started going down after the Izzie/Denny storyline, and drowned when Meredith tried to off herself. Luckily, I am a patient person, and am waiting for them to bring out the defibrilator...stat.

Morgan Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 04:05 PM EST

I think that if ABC didn't like the story line, then the writer should be fired, NOT Brooke Smith. She was just acting what she was given...it's not like she wrote the script. ABC seriously needs to rethink their decision

Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 03:49 PM EST

I am so glad that story line will be done with!! I can finally watch a full episode without fast forwarding through those horrible scenes. She definitely does not deserve and emmy for her role here...

Amy Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 03:41 PM EST

I am glad to see that this story line (not Erica's character) will be discontinued. Calle's indecision as to whether she is gay, being comfortable with both sexes, undermines the premise that gay activists having been fighting to communicate for nearly a decade, namely, that being gay is not a choice but rather what you are born to be.

I find it difficult to believe that Grey's misstep into this already sensitive area did not have reprucussions in the gay community. Their reaction, as with the Isaiah Washington situation, is to cut and run and leave the writers to bail them out with a creative explanation. Unfortunately Erica's character is left in the carnage.

CJ Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 03:38 PM EST

At the moment i am a season behind as i live in the UK, and i was really enjoying season four until i heard about Brookes departure. Brooke Smith will be a great loss to the show, i didn't realize ABC was such a Mickey mouse channel, i am going back to watch ER when season four ends at least they have the scene to finish what they start. i hope Grey's Anatomy loses even more ratings now so that they can learn a lesson, and then Brooke can have the last laugh :0) because from what i ve watched so far Brooke and sara have great chemistry together and its saddens me how they have treated Brooke as the actress and the two characters on the show its 2008, times has changed, so ABC needs to show this?

Madison Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 03:37 PM EST

I am so freaking outraged.
I loved her character and I hope that they realize this HUGE mistake that they just made
HUGE MISTAKE
>:|
So pissed

kana Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 03:19 PM EST

i imagine an email like this being written somewhere in Hollywood:

"Dear Grey's Anatomy execs,

You're hypocrites.

Sincerely,

Isaiah Washington"

CC Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 02:13 PM EST

too bad! her character was great!! damn Hollywood execs...

dj shiva Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 02:05 PM EST

I just have to add a "hell yeah" to this article.

I could listen to Brooke read the phone book and be happy, but I would rather get to see her work her acting magic.

Screw you, ABC. I started watching Grey's because of Brooke and Sara's storyline, and I am now done watching.

Bernie Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 01:57 PM EST

Am I paranoid - or is it just coincidental that Brooke was fired from ABCs "Grey's Anatomy" within 2 weeks of her call to open up the Presidential Debates on a site supporting Ralph Nader? - and isn't it sad that the show has lost the best actress they have ever employed and a truly feisty lesbian character!

lien Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 01:46 PM EST

I think it's an incredible waste of talent. Brooke is such an amazing actress, who didn't deserve such a treatment.
People who are glad she's gone because they didn't like her character should really reconsider. It's not her fault, you know. She is an actor, so she follows the script that has been written for her. If ABC wasn't happy with her storyline or her character, they should have fired the person who wrote the script, not the actor.
Personally, I was blown away by her 'glasses' speech. To me, that was worth an emmy. I really liked her character and I thought her relationship with Callie was interesting. It's a shame the writers made such a mess of it by using buckets full of gaypanic from Callie's side.
This was completely unexpected and it came as a shock to me, but I hope Brooke Smith will find something new and more fitting for her talent.

Robin Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 01:25 PM EST

I don't think ABC has a problem with gay couples, Look at daytime soap "All My Children" Bianca and Reece (lesbian couple) I have a feeling it is more than a gay Thing.. Maybe $$$$

irritated "fan" Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 01:00 PM EST

grey's anatomy fan, I'm pretty sure Sara was fine with it, any funkiness you may have seen was the crappy writing of Callie's nervousness (that played out like she wasn't into it)

Ultrakity Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 12:29 PM EST

as a nurse I have only sporadically watched greys as I have found it quite lame.. I was interested because ellen pompeo is from my area and the character of erica hahn.. cardiothoracic surgeons are exactly like Hahn and Iw as interested in seeing one sort of behind the scenes.. I found the freindship them affair with Torres very intriguing and well written and it was nice to see such an arrogant character caught so off guard by ...love or attraction or whatever..but it was soo....human.
Whatever ABCs reason for firing the actress it as a huge mistake because of the actress's talent and the character's development. BOO BOO BOO

McSmarty Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 12:00 PM EST

Reiterating the petition: http://www.petitionspot.com/petitions/hope4hahn

If you're vehment enough, sign the petition and then write to ABC and let them know Brooke deserves an Emmy, not to be fired.

Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 11:50 AM EST

dear brooke smith, thank you for the "glasses scene".
you made me smile and cry, and I loved dr. erica hahn!

grey's anatomy fan Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 10:18 AM EST

Like the show & the actors & yeah, the "glasses" scene WAS good...but I felt like the "Callie" character was being "pushed" into a relationship that she (or the actor) wasn't comfortable with. I kept hoping that either she or the writers would wake up and fix things. Didn't quite expect it to have such a drastic change of events though. And, no, I don't have a problem with gay relationships or seeing them on TV. I just don't like to see what I feel is manipulation by TV writers and/or TV execs.

Beverly Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 10:13 AM EST

THANK YOU KATE!!! People should be screening what there children watch. My daughter is 4 and if it is not rated G her eyes dont see it. Thats why I have a DVR so I can watch my shows when she is in bed for the night or taking a nap in the afternoon.

I also was not attached to Dr. Hahn and really didnt care for her character so I think the show will be better off without her.

elizabeth Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 09:43 AM EST

I think Brooke's demise was not the gay factor so much as the character she played was so repugnant in her arrogance and bullying behavior.

heart broken Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 09:14 AM EST

I can't believe that after last night's historic victory, gay people are left stuck in the shadows of intolerance and hate. The relationship between erica and callie was much less explicit than the nearly-naked, writhing around scenes between straight characters on lots of shows that has been going on for years, including on Grey's Anatomy. If you don't like that storyline, don't watch those parts (that is what DVR is for!), but don't deny gays the one relationship on the entirety of network television (have to go to the final season of the L Word on Showtime to get anything). This is horrible. How can we talk about positivity and moving forward when gayness is slammed shut, and civil rights are (likely) denied. My only hope comes from the struggle of African-Americans in this country-it took a long time and lots of opposition to make it after slavery ended. Opposition that included accusations of not being human, of immorality, of laws against inter-racial marriage. we shall overcome.

Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 08:58 AM EST

The explicit lesbian sexual comments on a pass episode were uncalled for. There was no reason for it. It did not better the show. The show would have been just as good without it. I think this was a very good move. And so must have many others.

Cory Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 08:13 AM EST

While I started out hating Erica, eventually she began evolving very naturally into a complex character, and her abrasive nature became more acceptable because she had layers. Callie was bringing out her inner softness, and she also seemed to be trying to be a better teacher to the interns and residents. So, I'm incredibly upset about Brooke Smith's firing. If they didn't like the story line, why couldn't they just end it like any other relationship on the show? If they didn't like the character, then they could have worked at making her more likable. It wasn't like there was no basis to thinking that Erica had a softer side deep down, because like I said there have been glimpses of it, especially when she was with Callie. If they still didn't work, then they could end her character's arc more naturally, and not end with her leaving work for the day. It's really ridiculous. It's sad that the character-and the Callica relationship-had to end this way.

Lee Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 07:28 AM EST

I am a great admirer of Brooke Smith, however found her character on Grey's to be completely one dimensional. There was nothing to like or relate to so I was never "invested" in Dr. Hahn. I think ABC tried to salvage her character with the lesbian storyline as a last ditch effort. When that didn't work, there was no where else to go. Admiring the actress does not always translate into liking the character. The fact that it involved a lesbian storyline really is not the issue. That would be like saying Isiah Washington was fired because he was African-American. Totally off point. I hope Brooke Smith lands the perfect role to showcase her talents, which are many. But on Grey's, I for one will not miss Dr. Hahn.

Ana Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 06:55 AM EST

Does it means TR might be fired soon?
This is kind of a disrespect with him too...
ABC S***....

Sina Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 05:29 AM EST

I like Brooke Smith but I hated this role of hers. I use to always FF her.