Justin Spitzer, known for his work on “Scrubs,” returns to the realm of workplace comedies with his latest project, “St. Denis Medical,” co-created with Eric Ledgin. After gaining popularity with shows like “Superstore” and “American Auto,” Spitzer has developed a distinctive style that translates effectively into the healthcare setting.
“St. Denis Medical” takes place in a safety-net hospital in Oregon, drawing attention to the pressing issues of modern healthcare rather than glorifying the hero-doctor trope prevalent in many medical dramas. The series introduces us to a frazzled nursing team portrayed by talented actors, including Allison Tolman as supervising nurse Alex, who navigates the challenges of managing a hospital amidst staffing shortages and patient needs. Wendi McLendon-Covey plays the executive director Joyce, who, despite her optimistic outlook, focuses more on acquiring new equipment than addressing the essential needs of the hospital’s operation.
Spitzer’s approach is refreshing; rather than delving deeply into dramatic crises, the characters respond humorously to the everyday challenges they face. This mockumentary style, reminiscent of “The Office” and “Abbott Elementary,” allows for moments of levity amid the serious issues of the healthcare system. Like many of Spitzer’s previous works, “St. Denis Medical” retains political and social awareness while also providing plenty of laughs.
As the show unfolds through the initial three episodes, we see a diverse cast that brings unique experiences, such as a nurse with a background in a Christian cult, providing depth and specificity to the narrative. The comedic elements often emerge from the chaos introduced by patients, much like the customers in “Superstore,” leading to a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.
“St. Denis Medical” is set to premiere on NBC on November 12 at 8 PM ET, with subsequent episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays and available for streaming on Peacock the following day. This show promises to be an insightful yet entertaining exploration of life in modern healthcare, and it may just resonate with viewers looking for both comedy and relevance in today’s world.
In summary, “St. Denis Medical” not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on significant healthcare challenges while highlighting the dedication of its characters. The show has the potential to become a beloved update to the genre, blending humor with poignant social commentary.