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Disgraced ABC Writer Slammed for Attempting to Fundraise Amid LA Wildfires Crisis

Elisabeth Finch, the former Grey’s Anatomy writer whose career was derailed by a stunning web of lies, is back in the spotlight. Once praised for her heartfelt storytelling, Finch’s past deceptions—including fabricating a cancer diagnosis—left a lasting stain on her reputation.

Now, her recent fundraising efforts for Los Angeles wildfire victims have sparked outrage, with critics accusing her of leveraging past manipulations to solicit donations.

grey's anatomy disney hulu
Credit: ABC Promo Image

Related: ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Stars Become Disney Legends

A Scandal That Shook Hollywood

Finch’s fall from grace began in 2022 when her fabrications came to light. The writer, who had worked on Grey’s Anatomy for eight years, falsely claimed to have endured a rare form of bone cancer, among other hardships. These stories inspired storylines on the show and garnered sympathy from colleagues.

Her lies unraveled after her wife exposed the truth, revealing that Finch had fabricated numerous aspects of her life, including claims of losing a kidney and surviving the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting.

Elisabeth Finch Grey's Anatomy
Credit: ABC Promo

Her resignation from Grey’s Anatomy marked the end of her career in Hollywood, with her deceit widely condemned by the industry and fans alike.

Fundraising Amid Wildfires

As wildfires ravaged Los Angeles, leaving destruction and tragedy in their wake, Finch took to social media to launch a fundraising campaign. In a post, she shared her Venmo details, claiming her goal was to help those struggling with basic needs during the crisis.

She wrote:

“This is just me. Boots on the ground. It was challenging enough getting dog food while evacuated and I was at a safe place. So this is for people who have virtually nothing and have pets with basic needs.”

The Palisades Fire in Los Angeles
Credit: Cal Fire Official, Flickr

Related: Controversy Erupts as Disney Star Promotes Fundraiser While LA Burns

However, her efforts quickly attracted backlash, with many questioning her motivations and sincerity given her history of deception.

Industry Peers Speak Out

Jamie Denbo, a former producer on Grey’s Anatomy, was among those who called out Finch’s fundraising campaign.

Taking to Facebook, Denbo issued a scathing warning:

“This person is a SCAMMER and a LIAR. It is well documented in the @peacock series #AnatomyofLies! Unless you want to send her donations of 69 cents for her ‘cancer treatment’ (she doesn’t have cancer) or perhaps ‘in memory of her late brother’ (he’s alive) or anything else she has lied about (everything) DO NOT DONATE to Elisabeth Finch!!”

Related: ABC Reporter Slammed for ‘Tone-Deaf’ Fashion Choice While Covering LA Fires Crisis

Denbo’s remarks echo the skepticism many hold about Finch’s intentions, particularly in light of her elaborate past fabrications.

Finch’s Defense

Facing criticism, Finch addressed the controversy in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. She acknowledged that her past has cast a shadow over her actions but insisted her intentions were genuine.

“I recognize, given my history, people might be skeptical of my fundraising efforts. I’m trying to make amends in as many ways I can, including helping my community — especially during these difficult times. So many organizations are calling for gift cards because they are overwhelmed with physical donations, and I didn’t want peoples’ pet needs to get lost in the shuffle.”

Elisabeth Finch in a scene from Grey's Anatomy
Credit: Screenshot, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, ABC

Despite her explanation, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that her history of deceit undermines any goodwill she seeks to rebuild.

Ms. Denbo said to THR:

“Elisabeth continues to scam, deceive and produce incredible material for comedians like myself to use and mock her relentlessly. I can’t thank her enough! (For just the last thing.) Keep it up, Finch!”

Elisabeth Finch in Anatomy of Lies on Peacock
Credit: Peacock/YouTube

Elisabeth Finch’s past actions have left an indelible mark on her reputation. While her efforts to assist wildfire victims may stem from genuine intentions, the lingering mistrust surrounding her makes it difficult for many to view her actions without skepticism.

As the controversy continues, Finch’s story serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of dishonesty in an industry where trust and credibility are paramount. Whether she can truly redeem herself remains to be seen.

What are your thoughts on Elisabeth Finch’s recent actions? Do you believe she deserves a second chance, or does her past make redemption impossible? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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