But after the episode aired in November, the showrunner realized shed overestimated the publics reaction.
Because the fans are always much more enlightened than, you know, the studio lawyers are.
I dont think Im ever shocked.
Credit: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images
No, Im not, Rhimes said.
Im usually expecting worse.
In fact, Rhimes was more concerned about Franklins perception of the scene than the publics.
And I had been very stressed out about that in general, about using that song, she said.
I had gone back to Arethas people like five times.
Did Aretha see the scene?
Did she see it?
Did she know what was being shown?
Finally, I got this note back that said, just stop asking.
Arethas seen the scene and shes fine.'
Keep reading for more revelations from the chat.
Scandals darkest days might be in the past.
After a turbulent five seasons of, clearer skies await Olivia Pope.
I think its especially true inGreys [Anatomy].
She continued: OnGreys, theres definitely a sense of optimism.
And onScandal, were heading some place thats optimistic.
Fitz and Rhimes have Vermont in common.
How would Rhimes spend her time?
Surprisingly, her life would be similar to whatScandals President Fitzgerald Grant might do after his second term ends.
Id catch up on all my shows, read my books.
Rhimes has a sassy reply for questions about her female characters.
I get asked this question so much: How do you create such smart, strong women?'
And Im like, Is the alternative weak, stupid women?
I dont understand the question.
Like, its not a goal.
I literally dont understand the question when Im asked it.
So its not a goal its just reality.
She suspects a TV bubble is on the horizon.
There might be a weird peak and bubble.
There are so many programs out there now.
Thats all the different mediums, and thats crazy.
Everythings much more specific to a different audience, a specific audience you might find your show.
And you have to find it.
It could be on your phone theres all these different places.
So thats a little interesting.
Rhimes continued: Theres a bubble that might burst at some point, at the tipping point.
But even that, Im intrigued to see what that means and what that will bring.
I dont approach any of it with fear because theres no point.
Its something I cant control.
And Im very good about not worrying about things I cant control.
