Justin Spitzer, a veteran sitcom writer known for his work on “Scrubs,” is making a triumphant return to the comedy genre with the new NBC series “St. Denis Medical,” co-created alongside Eric Ledgin, who previously worked on “Rutherford Falls.” Spitzer has a knack for crafting narratives that explore various aspects of modern life and the workforce, as seen in shows like “Superstore” and “American Auto.” His experiences in creating character-driven stories that reflect real socio-economic issues lend themselves perfectly to the healthcare setting depicted in “St. Denis Medical.”
The series presents a fresh take on the medical comedy format, distinguishing itself from the typical glamorous representations of doctors. Set in a “safety-net hospital” in Oregon, viewers are introduced to the struggles of the hospital staff as they navigate the challenges of healthcare with an emphasis on realism and humor. The show features characters like Alex, played by Allison Tolman, who attends to a patient recovering from drug overdose, while her colleague Val grapples with staffing shortages. In a clever twist, the character of trauma surgeon Bruce, portrayed by Josh Lawson, critiques the trope of the heroic doctor who rarely considers the practical realities of healthcare.
“St. Denis Medical” incorporates a mockumentary style reminiscent of “The Office,” enhancing its comedic yet poignant commentary on the state of healthcare. Unlike other recent medical dramas, it addresses underlying systemic issues rather than focusing solely on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing humor derived from absurdities faced by its characters. The cast, which includes the optimistic executive director Joyce, played by Wendi McLendon-Covey, balances the burdens of their environment with a sense of humor that keeps the narrative engaging.
As the story unfolds across the first three episodes, the ensemble cast emerges as a compelling collective, navigating the turmoil and chaos inherent in their roles. With relatable characters like Matt, the new nurse from a Christian cult, the show avoids clichés and instead brings specificity and depth to its narrative.
The premiere of the first two episodes is set for November 12 on NBC at 8 PM ET, with subsequent episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays. With its sharp wit and grounded storytelling, “St. Denis Medical” has the potential to resonate with audiences seeking both laughter and a deeper understanding of the complexities in modern healthcare.
This series seems poised to provide not just entertainment, but a meaningful conversation about the realities of healthcare, all while remaining humorous and relatable—a combination that could pave the way for further exploration of such themes in television.