Justin Spitzer, known for his impactful contributions to sitcoms, first gained recognition for his work on “Scrubs,” a beloved workplace comedy set in a hospital. Two decades later, he is back in the medical comedy genre with his new series “St. Denis Medical,” co-created alongside Eric Ledgin, who also worked on “Rutherford Falls.” Spitzer’s distinctive style, honed through shows like “The Office,” brings a fresh perspective to contemporary workplaces, including retail and the automotive industry.
“St. Denis Medical” offers a stark contrast to the more comedic and lighthearted tone of “Scrubs.” Set in a safety-net hospital in Oregon, the show focuses on characters grappling with relevant societal issues in a healthcare setting. The series opens with supervising nurse Alex, portrayed by Allison Tolman, dealing with the challenges of a patient recovering from an opioid overdose while facing staffing shortages and management priorities that may not align with urgent patient care needs. This realistic portrayal highlights the struggles of healthcare professionals without romanticizing their work.
The series avoids the overused trope of heroic doctors, choosing instead to spotlight the critical role of nurses and the harsh realities of life in a hospital. Characters like trauma surgeon Bruce, played by Josh Lawson, serve as a humorous critique of the archetypal hero doctor, while David Alan Grier’s portrayal of doctor Ron adds depth to the show’s comedic lens. The mockumentary style, reminiscent of “The Office,” enhances the storytelling, showcasing a realistic yet humorous depiction of an often-chaotic healthcare environment.
Unlike many recent medical dramas, “St. Denis Medical” does not dwell on the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, it uses the societal inequities laid bare by the pandemic as a backdrop, providing a humorous and insightful take on the everyday absurdities faced by its characters. Wendi McLendon-Covey’s upbeat portrayal of executive director Joyce adds an element of hope, encouraging the staff to maintain positivity in the face of systemic challenges.
Over the three episodes provided to critics, “St. Denis Medical” has developed a charming ensemble that effectively sheds light on the dysfunction within healthcare while keeping the tone light and comedic. The inclusion of supporting characters like Matt, a new nurse with a unique backstory, prevents the show from slipping into clichés.
The first two episodes of “St. Denis Medical” will debut on November 12 on NBC at 8 PM ET, followed by weekly releases on Tuesdays and availability on Peacock the following day. This series not only promises laughter but also invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of the healthcare system, making it a standout contribution to the genre.
In summary, “St. Denis Medical” combines humor and social commentary, ensuring its place as a relevant addition to the sitcom landscape while entertaining audiences with relatable characters and situations. The series carries the hopeful theme of resilience, highlighting how laughter can emerge from even the most challenging circumstances.