Black Women Who Slayed History: Shonda Rhimes
This Black History Month, we’re highlighting the black woman who helped make our world what it is today. Today, we honor Shonda Rhimes.
You may not know Shonda Rhimes by name, but you’ve definitely seen her work.
Perhaps you first stumbled upon her screenwriting when you saw The Princess Diaries 2, or maybe Britney’s acting debut in Crossroads.
If you’re more of a TV person, you’re sure to have seen “Grey’s Anatomy,” a show created completely by Rhimes. Or maybe one of her more recent shows, such as “How To Get Away With Murder” or “Scandal.”
READ ALSO: Black Women Who Slayed History: Dorothy Vaughan
Born in Illinois, Shonda was the first African-American woman to create and executive produce a Top 10 Network series, for “Grey’s Anatomy.” But she didn’t always know that she wanted to write screenplays. She actually worked in advertising after graduating Dartmouth, but then went back to school at USC for their writing for screen and television program, where she earned a writing fellowship.
In the Summer of 2015, Shonda released her own book, entitled Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person. Shonda has received over 16 awards for her work, and the way things are going for her currently, with “Scandal” and “How To Get Away With Murder,” we’re sure there are plenty more to come.
READ ALSO: Black Women Who Slayed History: Angela Davis
Next time you’re binge-watching Grey’s Anatomy, thank Shonda Rhimes.
