Ryan Murphy, Jon Robin Baitz, and Joe Baken introduced their new medical drama, “Doctor Odyssey,” on Thursday following the premiere of their horror series, “Grotesquerie,” the previous night. The show stars Joshua Jackson as Dr. Max Bankman, a Yale-educated physician tasked with managing medical emergencies aboard a luxury cruise ship.
In the opening scenes, Dr. Bankman prepares for his first day at work while listening to Smokey Robinson’s “Cruisin’.” Although starting a new job can be daunting, Jackson’s character, known for his Hawaiian shirts, exudes a relaxed demeanor. Post-COVID, he embarks on his new adventure aboard The Odyssey, a beautifully designed cruise liner teeming with honeymooners and retirees enjoying their vacations.
Dr. Bankman’s medical team is small but determined. His office resembles a first-class hospital with some constraints. Nurse practitioner Avery (Phillipa Soo) is introduced as a potential love interest, working alongside competitive nurse Tristan (Sean Teale), who has his sights set on her. They all report to Captain Robert Massey (Don Johnson), who encourages his staff to act as guardian angels for the guests.
Dr. Bankman quickly adapts to his new role at sea, but soon faces medical emergencies, including a guest suffering from iodine poisoning after consuming too much shrimp. As the episode unfolds, additional emergencies arise, testing the limits of the cruise ship’s medical facilities compared to Dr. Bankman’s previous high-standard surgical experience.
While “Doctor Odyssey” follows the structure of a typical medical procedural, Jackson’s portrayal of Dr. Bankman adds a refreshing twist. Transitioning from darker roles in projects like “Dr. Death” and “Fatal Attraction,” Jackson embraces a more charming and likable character, inviting viewers to experience his journey towards achieving balance between work and leisure on the high seas.
The chemistry between Jackson and Soo enhances the premiere, as they bond over drinks on gorgeous beaches. Their relationship deepens during the show, revealing personal traumas that connect them. The series balances lighthearted moments with intense drama, especially during critical scenes that elicit the panic-inducing phrase, “Man overboard.”
There are obvious comparisons to be drawn between “Doctor Odyssey” and the classic “The Love Boat,” as each episode presents new guests and medical scenarios for Dr. Bankman to tackle. The premiere featured Rachel Dratch in a minor role, with future episodes promising appearances by stars like Shania Twain, John Stamos, and Kelsea Ballerini.
Dr. Bankman reflects on the body’s healing abilities, emphasizing his extensive medical experience. However, the show’s current focus on the glamorous aspects of cruise ship life remains somewhat superficial. “Doctor Odyssey” starts with a solid foundation, and viewers will be curious to see how Dr. Bankman manages his patients’ needs throughout the season.
“Doctor Odyssey” airs on Thursdays on ABC, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day.