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ABC exec insists Heigl is staying on "Grey's Anatomy"

BY VERNE GAY | verne.gay@newsday.com

July 17, 2008

Will Katherine stay? And will Jay join?

Those were the two big questions before ABC Entertainment chief Steve McPherson at yesterday's session of the TV critics' press tour in Los Angeles.

Katherine Heigl pulled herself out of Emmy contention a couple of weeks ago, blaming her '07 "Grey's Anatomy" story line, which instantly sparked speculation that she wanted off the show.

McPherson came about as close as he could in a packed and very public forum to rebuking her without sounding like he was rebuking her.

"It's unfortunate when anyone says something," he said sharply during yesterday's executive session. He went on to praise the show as "beautifully produced," and that everyone on the show, from grips to producers, had created a splendid season. But he added, "she's absolutely central to the show," and that she "will stay" on "Grey's Anatomy."

He didn't say for how long, though adding, "she has an unbelievable story line this season."

Separately, in one of the more inspired moments of this year's press tour, ABC planted Jimmy Kimmel among the army of critics and reporters. When McPherson called on him, Kimmel introduced himself as a reporter, then proceeded to ask about the Jay Leno-to-ABC rumors. "I want to ask about Jay Leno ... is your name McPherson or Mc-four-son ... "I don't feel comfortable talking" about the Leno situation, McPherson deadpanned.

Asked Kimmel/reporter: "Aren't you afraid if you do replace Jimmy Kimmel he'll do something crazy to your car?" Then it got a little more serious.

Of Leno, McPherson said, "I can't believe NBC is gonna let this guy go out at the top of his game, but if they do, Jimmy will be part of the discussions."