Page - 41 - in JRFM - Journal Religion Film Media, Volume 04/02

40 | Sharon Lauricella and Hannah M. Scott www.jrfm.eu 2018, 4/2, 39–53 ANATOMY OF GREY’S The phrase “You’re my person” is used as a term of endearment in the highly successful television drama Grey’s Anatomy (Peter Horton, US 2005–). The phrase is remarkable in both its concept and its application because it is not used between characters who have joined together in a marriage or civil union; rather, it is used primarily between friends, such as Meredith Grey and Cristina Yang or Meredith and Alex Karev. Use of this phrase – one usually reserved for those in a romantic relationship – subverts viewers’ expectations and thus demonstrates how Grey’s Anatomy challenges gender norms and normative heterosexuality and the importance of both platonic and romantic relationships in this program. In depicting 14 weddings over the program’s 13 seasons, Grey’s Anatomy takes the opportunity to redefine what it means to perform as a wom- an, a professional, a wife, a mother, and a friend. This article is a critical content analysis of weddings and religiosity in Grey’s Anatomy and adheres closely to feminist and gender theory. Grey’s Anatomy has enjoyed longevity and excellent ratings since its incep- tion in 2005. It is currently the longest-running scripted primetime show airing on the ABC television network. The program’s broadcast constancy and posi- tive ratings have earned it multiple Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominations and it received the Golden Globe 2007 Award for Best Television Series – Drama. The program has been noted for its effects on popular culture, including organ donation2 and patient satisfaction with their doctors.3 While in reality few hospitals would have the frequency and turnover of romantic pair- ings and triangles featured on Grey’s Anatomy, personal relationships in the program drive much of the plotline, depicting the evolution of dating, marriage, and breakups. Over its extensive run, the program features a same-sex mar- riage, second marriages, and large events and small services, as well as both religious and humanist ceremonies. This article is the first content analysis pro- ject to examine Grey’s Anatomy while incorporating feminist theory; the only other feminist examination of the program has addressed casting.4 It is the first to address marriage and religion in this iconic series. REVIEW OF LITERATURE FEMINISM, COMMUNICATION, AND RELIGIOSITY The relationship between feminism and communication is well established, for feminist and gender studies simultaneously emerged and matured alongside 2 Morgan/Moviuis/Cody 2009, 135–151. 3 Quick 2009, 38–55. 4 Long 2011, 1067–1084.