Ellen Pompeo, known for her long-standing role on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy,” is branching out into new territory with her latest project, “Good American Family,” which will stream on Hulu. After two decades in one series, Pompeo sought a role that would allow her to truly immerse herself in a character. She believes she’s found that in her portrayal of a devoted mother facing an extraordinary challenge.
“Good American Family” is inspired by the real-life story of Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian orphan with dwarfism. After being adopted by an American family, things take a dark turn as accusations arise that she may be an adult pretending to be a child. Pompeo plays the mother, a woman who has achieved recognition as an author and speaker after raising a son with autism. However, as events unfold, her personal life spirals into chaos – a marriage strained by legal troubles and public scrutiny.
Katie Robbins, the series’ creator, emphasizes the importance of blending factual elements with dramatic storytelling. The aim is to craft a narrative that is both gripping and emotionally authentic, shedding light on the complex dynamics within this family.
While previous portrayals of this case have typically drawn clear lines between heroes and villains, “Good American Family” takes a more nuanced approach. The series unfolds through varying perspectives, encouraging viewers to reconsider their initial judgments. As the story alternates between the adoptive parents and Natalia, it highlights the different ways in which family members perceive the unfolding drama.
Co-showrunner Sarah Sutherland describes the storytelling as akin to a Rorschach test, where individuals project their own biases onto the characters and events. This reinforces the idea that everyone views situations through their own unique lens, shaped by their upbringing and experiences.
As the eight-episode series progresses, it strikes a balance between moments of levity and unsettling scenes, reflecting the complexity of family life. Robbins notes that life’s joyful and tragic moments often coexist, a theme echoed throughout the series.
Ultimately, “Good American Family” delves into the effects of parenting across generations, exploring how past influences can shape present relationships. Pompeo brings an insightful perspective, pointing out the current societal tendency to stand firm in one’s beliefs, even in the face of overwhelming evidence. As she reflects on the series’ themes, she expresses concern about the rigidity with which people cling to their narratives, particularly in today’s polarized environment.
This new series not only offers a gripping family drama but also serves as a commentary on the nature of truth and perception, inviting viewers to engage with the story on a deeper level.
