LOS ANGELES – Renowned actress Ellen Pompeo faced an unexpected drama off-screen when her bag of Erewhon sunflower seeds prompted a bomb squad intervention at an airport. The incident highlights the sometimes surprising protocols of airport security.
Immediate Impact
During a recent interview with Travel + Leisure, Ellen Pompeo recounted her startling experience with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that led to her detainment over what she described as “probably the most expensive sunflower seeds money can buy.”
“I had a bag of sunflower seeds, like organic sunflower seeds from Erewhon,” Pompeo shared. “They literally held me for an hour, and they brought the bomb squad in.”
Key Details Emerge
The actress, known for her role in Grey’s Anatomy, was bewildered by the intense reaction to her snack. “I was like, what is happening? Is this a joke?” she said. TSA officials suggested that a chemical on the packaging could be the cause for concern.
Pompeo offered to dispose of the seeds, but was informed that a bomb squad assessment was necessary. “I almost missed the flight. It was really like no one would ever believe this!” she recalled, noting her anxiety as she texted her publicist about the ordeal.
Personal Impact and Family Dynamics
The delay was particularly stressful for Pompeo, who admitted to being a nervous flier. “I like to hold my kids’ hands when I take off,” she said. Pompeo shares three children with her husband, music producer Chris Ivery.
Family’s Reaction to Her Work
While Pompeo relies on her children for comfort during flights, they are not avid fans of her work. During an appearance on the Jennifer Hudson Show, she revealed that her family does not follow Grey’s Anatomy closely, a sentiment echoed by her husband who prefers sports.
“That’s how I’ve been married so long,” Pompeo quipped.
Background Context
Pompeo’s eldest daughter, Stella Luna, has watched some episodes but stopped after a significant character’s death. “When they see that George O’Malley died, they say, ‘I’m done, I just can’t do it anymore,'” Pompeo explained.
Her younger daughter, Sienna May, has shown interest in the show, though Pompeo is cautious about her viewing. “I don’t want my daughter to see me in my underwear on television just yet,” she told Jimmy Kimmel.
What Comes Next
As Pompeo continues to navigate her career and family life, her recent airport experience serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise even for celebrities. The incident also underscores the importance of understanding security protocols and the potential for seemingly innocuous items to cause significant disruptions.
For now, Pompeo remains focused on her family and upcoming projects, leaving the unexpected drama of sunflower seeds behind her.
