Shonda Rhimes Teases Upcoming ‘Scandal’ and ‘How to Get Away With Murder’ Crossover Event

What Shondaland fan hasn't dreamed of a crossover event? Now, those dreams are coming true because ABC hit shows Scandal and How to Get Away With Murder return tonight for a two-part event. Fans will get to experience Olivia Pope (played by Kerry Washington) and Annalise Keating (played by Viola Davis) wear their (sometimes) white hats in the same storyline.

"These are two really unique, strong-minded people," executive producer Shonda Rhimes told Entertainment Weekly. "The other thing about them is that they both are used to giving orders, not taking orders, especially Annalise, so it's going to be interesting to see if she can do that, if she can listen to someone else's advice even if she disagrees with it. What’s awesome about the two hours is neither one of them gives up who they are, but they are both working for something bigger than themselves. I think it's interesting to watch if they can put aside their own egos, put aside their own styles, to succeed and get this victory they both want."

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The stars of the shows are clearly just as excited for viewers to witness their strong female characters work together — just look at the way they announced the news! Kerry shared a photo of herself on the HTGAWM set with the playful caption, "Hey Ms @violadavis ❤️ check it out. This spot look familiar?! Where are you?"

Fans were quick to understand what was going on (they're gladiators after-all!) and began flooding the star's Instagram post with excited comments. One fan wrote, "I really can't wait for this crossover!!! It'll be amazing!" While another added, "Dear Lord I've been waiting my whole life for this ??? ."

Viola replied with a photo of herself on the Scandal White House set writing, "Hey @KerryWashington, guess where I am?!" Of course, fans could hardly believe what was happening. "Best news ever @violadavis @kerrywashington my too favorite actresses in the same stage. thank you @shondarhimes."

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Shonda posted part of the script to Instagram to tease the upcoming episode. In the script, Olivia seems to be addressing a crowd. She says, "People think that we lie for a living. In fact, often the truth is our greatest weapon." This line isn't just part of the crossover dialogue — but also serves as a theme of both shows which tell the stories of lawyers in the public and private sectors. Shortly after she delivers the line, it's dramatically revealed that Annalise is in the room. Now, all we need is for someone to get sick, you know, so Meredith Grey can rush to save them!

New TGIT episodes of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder return on Thursday, March 1, on ABC.