'Shondaland' takes over television with three new premieres

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Screenwriter Shona Rhimes' television empire took over ABC Thursday with the season premieres of Grey's Anatomy, Scandal and How to Get Away with Murder.

Fans and stars alike took to Twitter to express their excitement for the returning shows using the hashtag, #TGIT(Thank God It's Thursday) to show their support.

"#operate. #gladiate. #exonerate. #TGIT day is here!!," Rhimes tweeted referencing all three shows.

"I was a #Scandal fan long before I was a #Scandal cast member. And as a fan, I'm soooo excited to see the show tonight!!! #TGIT," wrote actress Portia de Rossi.

The new year of Shondaland drama's began with the first Patrick Dempsey less season of Grey's Anatomy, now in its 12th season. The emotional episode was highlighted by a pair of teenage girlfriends who attempted suicide by jumping in front of a train. The premiere ended on lighter note however when Dr. Miranda Bailey, played by Chandra Wilson, is finally named chief.

Next up was Scandal. The popular drama showcased lead Olivia Pope, played by Kerry Washington, trying to solve the murder of The Princess of Caledonia who was killed on American soil. Scandal's return also featured plenty of hot and heavy scenes between Olivia and Fitz as the press starts catching wind of their relationship.

Coming off her recent Emmy win for Best Lead Actress, Viola Davis returned as Annalise Keating for season 2 of How to Get Away with Murder shocking fans with a surprise ending. The episode comes to a close with a cliffhanger, as Keating is seen bleeding on the floor of her new clients' home left for dead, setting up a new mystery for the remainder of the season.

Earlier in September, Rhimes sat down with her three leading stars for an Entertainment Weekly cover-story where the pair discussed sexism in Hollywood and what's next for their shows.