Carol Mendelsohn: 'We Are Not A Soap Opera'

CSI showrunner Carol Mendelsohn told the Chicago Tribune that despite Grissom and Sara's union, CSI won't turn into a one giant Harlequin novel.

"We are not a soap opera. We are not a serial," she explained. "We will always be a show about science, mystery, clues, and twists and turns. And this is a twist and turn. But it's not going to be the Grissom-Sara show from now on."

But even though the show is all about the science, the writers want the fans to get a glimpse into Grissom through this new relationship, which may actually not be new at all. "I think the viewers are always able to draw their own conclusions about the relationships," she said. "It was a very private, intimate moment and I think it suggested a level of comfortability that comes from a relationship that is not so new."

Mendelsohn also had the chance to talk about ABC's move of the hit drama Grey's Anatomy opposite CSI on Thursday nights. Though CSI remains the most watched scripted show, Grey's ratings continue to increase. "I don't know what's going to happen but I do think we can both coexist on that night. And we're going to do our best to deliver the best season ever."

Grey's isn't CSI's only worry. The show's front man William Petersen (Gil Grissom) has been talking about leaving, and though Mendelsohn believes the show could go on without him, some believe the damage would be irreparable. "I think the show's greatness exists apart from any one of us, or perhaps all of us. Can I say the show will go on? I think it will. Will the joy be gone in Mudville if we can't write for Billy and Grissom? Oh boy, yes."

"But at the moment the show is about Grissom and his team, and I hope it will always be about that."

To read more about Mendelsohn's take on the Grissom-Sara relationship and what makes Grissom tick, visit the Chicago Tribune.

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