Justin Spitzer, renowned for his work on “Scrubs,” is making a notable return to the sitcom genre with his latest project, “St. Denis Medical,” co-created with Eric Ledgin, who also contributed to “Rutherford Falls.” This new series, premiering on NBC, is a continuation of Spitzer’s trend of setting comedies against the backdrop of contemporary workplaces, like retail or auto industry environments, that reflect on broader societal issues.
“St. Denis Medical” diverges sharply from the carefree tone of “Scrubs” by portraying the realities of life in a “safety-net hospital” in Oregon. The show opens with supervising nurse Alex, played by the talented Allison Tolman, who is dealing with the aftermath of a patient’s opioid overdose. The narrative highlights the struggles of a hardworking medical team, including nurse Val, noted for her contributions in “Superstore,” who faces a daunting staffing crisis, while executive director Joyce, portrayed by Wendi McLendon-Covey, focuses on acquiring flashy new equipment instead of addressing underlying systemic issues.
Unlike many medical series that idolize charismatic doctors, “St. Denis Medical” critiques this trope through characters like trauma surgeon Bruce, played by Josh Lawson, who embodies the stereotype of the self-centered hero. The show’s foundation rests on the essential role of nurses in patient care, with Alex serving as a grounding figure amidst the chaos.
The series adopts a mockumentary style reminiscent of “The Office” and “Abbott Elementary,” incorporating handheld camerawork and faux testimonials to enhance its realism. While addressing the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the show primarily explores pre-existing healthcare inequities that have been exacerbated in recent years. The humor shines through even in challenging circumstances, driven by characters like inherently optimistic Joyce who inspires her team to tackle systemic challenges with positivity.
Over the initial episodes, “St. Denis Medical” builds a relatable ensemble that offers insight into the dysfunctions of the healthcare system, balanced with lighthearted moments that resonate with viewers. Supporting characters, such as a new nurse with a unique background, provide depth and specificity, keeping the narrative fresh and engaging.
The first two episodes of “St. Denis Medical” will debut on November 12 on NBC at 8 PM ET, with subsequent episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays and available for streaming the following day on Peacock.
This promising new series not only aims to entertain but also to shine a light on significant healthcare issues, offering a blend of humor and social commentary that could resonate with a broad audience.