Shonda Rhimes is the queen of television, and anyone who would deny that probably doesn't even own a TV set. Rhimes' shows on ABC have garnered not only millions of fans but also a cultlike status. Whether you're the hospital-drama fan or waiting to see what Olivia Pope will get herself into each episode, Rhimes has proved that she can pull a story together like no other. And it's this ability that's getting her recognized at the 27th annual Producers Guild Awards Saturday, Jan. 23.
During the award show, Rhimes will receive the 2016 Norman Lear Achievement Award in Television.
"Shonda Rhimes is one of the most passionate and insightful storytellers in entertainment today. Her pioneering work on Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away With Murder has redefined the role of women in media and spurred the debate about diversity in television," said co-chairs Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd in a statement. "Like the intelligent, strong and fearless characters she creates, Shonda is a true force to be reckoned with and we are privileged to honor her with this year’s Norman Lear Achievement Award in Television."
Norman Lear was the man behind such classics as All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Sanford and Son, Good Times and Diff'rent Strokes—and that's just to name a few. Needless to say, Rhimes is in good company.
"To be the recipient of an award bestowed upon me by my peers in the PGA is truly an honor. The fact that the award is named after a legendary producer whose work has had such an inspiring effect on my growth as a writer is genuinely gratifying. I couldn’t be more grateful for this special recognition," Rhimes stated.
One of this year's The Root 100 nominees, Rhimes has branched out from television. On Nov. 10 she will be releasing her new memoir, Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person.
From television to literature, 2015 is definitely Rhimes' year.