When an actress who spent a decade inside one of television’s most beloved medical dramas steps into a new era of producing and directing, audiences take notice. Sarah Drew, best known as Dr. April Kepner on Grey’s Anatomy, sits down with host Simonetta Lein for a revealing conversation about her path from TV fame to creative control, touching on faith, rejection, and two major projects arriving in November 2026.
In a special new episode of The Simonetta Lein Show, host Simonetta Lein welcomes acclaimed actress, producer, writer, and director Sarah Drew for an intimate and entertaining conversation celebrating her remarkable career, beloved characters, creative evolution, faith, resilience, and two highly anticipated projects arriving this November 2026.
Drew is recognized globally for her portrayal of Dr. April Kepner on Grey’s Anatomy, and her résumé also includes standout work in Everwood, Cruel Summer, Radio, and Mom’s Night Out. Her career has been defined by emotionally rich performances and a genuine connection with audiences that extends far beyond the screen.
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The conversation opens with a look back at Drew’s beginnings in acting and the experiences that shaped her path, from her early television work to becoming part of the Grey’s Anatomy legacy. She reflects on the characters she has brought to life and how those roles have influenced her both personally and professionally.
Lein and Drew then shift to her latest chapter as Emily Lane in Hallmark’s mystery series Mistletoe Murders. Drew returns for Season 3 alongside Peter Mooney as Detective Sam Wilner, while also stepping into the role of executive producer. The new season premieres Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 8/7c on Hallmark Channel, with new episodes streaming on Hallmark+ the following day.
The discussion explores what audiences can expect from Emily Lane in the new season, Drew’s experience balancing acting with producing, and how stepping behind the camera has expanded her creative perspective.
Drew also ventures into the world of classic Hollywood in the upcoming feature film Jimmy, portraying legendary Hollywood gossip columnist Hedda Hopper. Starring KJ Apa as Jimmy Stewart, the film takes audiences into the life and legacy of one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
With Jimmy scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on November 6, Drew discusses what drew her to the project, the experience of portraying such a distinctive historical figure, and the challenge of bringing the atmosphere of classic Hollywood to life.
The interview also delves into Drew’s evolution beyond acting as she continues to work across producing, writing, and directing. Lein and Drew discuss what it means to have a greater creative voice in the storytelling process and how taking on different roles behind the scenes has influenced her work in front of the camera.
Faith, gratitude, and giving back become central to the conversation as well. Drew reflects on the role faith has played in her life and career, the importance of staying grounded through the changing seasons of Hollywood, and what using her platform to encourage and support others means to her.
Lein also addresses the subject of rejection, asking Drew whether a closed door or disappointment from earlier in her career ultimately opened the way to something unexpected. Drew shares her perspective on navigating rejection, continuing to move forward, and what she would say to anyone currently hearing “no” in pursuit of their dreams.
The episode concludes with a highly anticipated lively Lightning Round, giving viewers a playful look at the woman behind some of television and film’s most memorable characters. Drew answers quick questions about April Kepner and Emily Lane, comfort food, funny set moments, dream roles, mystery-solving skills, embarrassing moments, Hedda Hopper’s hypothetical Instagram, and the one thing she still can’t resist.
“Her journey is filled with creativity, resilience, faith, and the courage to embrace new chapters. It was such a joy to explore both the woman and the storyteller behind the roles audiences love,” says host Simonetta Lein.
About Sarah Drew
Sarah Drew is an acclaimed actress, producer, writer, and director known for her work across television and film. She is best known for portraying Dr. April Kepner on Grey’s Anatomy, as well as her roles in Everwood, Cruel Summer, Radio, and Mom’s Night Out.
She currently stars as Emily Lane in Hallmark’s mystery series Mistletoe Murders, where she also serves as an executive producer. Season 3 premieres November 5, 2026, on Hallmark Channel, with new episodes streaming on Hallmark+ the following day.
Drew’s upcoming projects also include the feature film Jimmy, in which she portrays legendary Hollywood gossip columnist Hedda Hopper. Starring KJ Apa as Jimmy Stewart, Jimmy is scheduled for nationwide theatrical release on November 6, 2026.
Production Credits:
📺 Host: Simonetta Lein
🌟 Guest: Sarah Drew
🎥 Production Company: Ausonia Partners LLC
💡 Executive Producer: Raphael Anthony Amabile
📲 Production Assistant: Vivian Nantambi
🙌🏻 Talent Producer: Claudia Cagan
💄 MUA/Hairstylist: Gabrielle Quinn
🎥 Video Editor: The Global Assist
📝 Content Director: Arsh Jit Kaur
Media Department
Ausonia Partners
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Why it matters: Drew’s dual role as star and executive producer on Mistletoe Murders, alongside her leap into period film with Jimmy, signals a shift in how established TV actors are taking ownership of their creative output. With both projects landing in the same week, November 2026 could mark a defining moment in her post-Grey’s career, offering audiences a chance to see her range from small-screen mystery to old Hollywood drama.
