Sarah Drew: TV Doctor Turned Writer, Director, and Producer
Executive producer and star of Hallmark’s newest series, Mistletoe Murders, tells about her latest project, and reflects on her time as ‘Dr. April Kepner’ in ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy.
Sarah Drew, known best for her role as the lovable ‘Dr. April Kepner’ on nine seasons of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, is much more than just a TV doctor. Now a writer, director, and producer, Drew divulges her latest project, Hallmark’s Mistletoe Murders, where she acts as executive producer and headlines the series as the smart and tough ‘Emily Lane.’ Beyond her most recent venture, Drew talks with Miami Living about inspiration from her daily life, Miami travels, and her time as ‘Dr. April Kepner,’ speaking on how the role shaped her, her favorite moments on the show, and her painful, yet empowering exit.
Miami Living: Can you tell us about your latest project, Mistletoe Murders? What drew you to this Hallmark series, and how does it stand out from other holiday specials this season?
Sarah Drew: I thought the script was amazing. The mystery was really well-crafted and took a lot of fun twists and turns, but what really made me want to do the show was the character arc for Emily Lane. The flashback scene at the end of episode one had my jaw on the floor. I was so excited to play a character with a lot of secrets—someone who is ultimately good but will blur the lines for the greater good. There’s nothing like this in any other holiday offerings. There’s intrigue, adventure, mystery, comedy, romance, and heartbreaking vulnerability. It’s a dream show to be a part of.
Miami Living: Holiday-themed roles seem to be a recurring part of your career. What is it about these roles that resonates with you personally?
Sarah Drew: They are all different. I think the reason holiday movies are so appealing is because you know going into it that everything will ultimately be OK by the end. So much of life is not like that, and it’s comforting to watch a movie that has true resolution—true repair after rupture. I like stories that have repair and redemption, and each of the projects I’ve chosen to do has some element of that.
Miami Living: Mistletoe Murders blends the warmth of the holidays with the intrigue of a murder mystery. Was this shift in tone a new challenge for you? What have you discovered about yourself through this project?
Sarah Drew: I wouldn’t say it was a challenge in any way that every role is a challenge. The greatest challenge to me was playing a character with so many different layers to her. Emily becomes who she needs to be in each situation to get what she needs to solve the puzzle. Playing a character who is true to herself internally but someone else entirely on the outside is a very big challenge for me.
Miami Living: Your long-standing role as Dr. April Kepner on Grey’s Anatomy left a significant mark on your career. How did that experience shape you as an actress?
Sarah Drew: In so many ways. I think the biggest lesson for me on that show was to use my voice. Sandra Oh was an incredible example of a deeply respected artist who advocated for her character with passion and integrity. Watching her so successfully collaborate empowered me to do the same. I spoke up for April’s journey throughout my whole time on the show, and I think it taught me to be a good leader and collaborator once I left the show and began producing and writing myself.
Miami Living: Dr. Kepner was a fan favorite on Grey’s Anatomy. What was it like to say goodbye to such an iconic role, and can you share more about the circumstances of your departure from the show?
Sarah Drew: It was a very real heartbreak to leave the show, but I came to understand that it was a hidden gift. Since then, I’ve been making my own stuff—writing and directing and producing—and I think if I was still on the show, I wouldn’t have made that leap. I’m so happy with where I am now and so grateful for the experience. I think it also taught me to hold less tightly to career things. This industry can be cruel and can be glorious. Things change all the time and in a flash. Learning how to let go of things when it’s time to let go was a hard-earned lesson, and I’m grateful for it.
Miami Living: Reflecting on your time on Grey’s Anatomy: Do you have any favorite moments or episodes that stand out to you?
Sarah Drew: The Japril the Movie episode was one of my favorites because it was the first time Jesse and I were given a whole episode to play just the two of us, and we had a blast taking that journey together. I also am super proud of the episode in Season 14 with the Rabbi. April’s loss of faith and then return to it was one of the most moving stories I’ve ever played. I had a hand in crafting that as well, and people from every walk of life were deeply touched by it. That episode will always go down as one of my favorites.
Miami Living: Beyond acting, what inspires you in your daily life? Do you have any hobbies, hidden talents, or passions outside of your career? If you weren’t acting, what alternative career path might you have pursued?
Sarah Drew: My kids inspire me. I love watching them grow into themselves and figure out who they want to be in the world. My son is a brilliant filmmaker, and I’m in awe of his focus and determination to grow in his skill. My daughter is really into musical theater, and it’s been a joy to watch her grow in confidence and charisma up on the stage. I also really love to do hot yoga. That’s my one self-care thing that I give myself.
Miami Living: How would you describe your experience in Miami?
Sarah Drew: I was recently there, but only for a quick night before hopping on the Hallmark Channel Christmas cruise, so I didn’t get to explore.
You can stream Mistletoe Murders on HALLMARK+ now. Follow Sarah Drew on Instagram @thesarahdrew.