Justin Spitzer, initially known for scripting for "Scrubs," reinvents workplace comedy in his new sitcom "St. Denis Medical," co-created with Eric Ledgin for NBC. Spitzer's unique style, honed in shows like "Superstore" and "American Auto," fits perfectly into the healthcare setting. His characters, engaging in the vicissitudes of life within modern economic structures, reflect larger socio-political circumstances.
Rather than echoing the jovial chic of "Scrubs," "St. Denis Medical" sets a different tone by taking place in a "safety-net hospital" in Oregon. The story presents multiple characters, among them supervising nurse Alex (played by Allison Tolman) and executive director Joyce (portrayed by Wendi McLendon-Covey). It humorously questions the stereotype of the heroic doctor, focusing instead on the nurses' backbone role and highlighting administrative challenges.
Other than a few mentions, the show does not take COVID-19 and its impact on the health care system as its main focus. Instead, "St. Denis Medical" does a deep dive into the systemic issues present before the pandemic, leveraging them for its comical angle. The patients and their quirky requests offer a constant source of amusement, much like the customers on "Superstore".
Over the first three episodes, the show develops a likable cast that provides an engaging perspective on some harsh realities of healthcare. Unique characters, such as Matt (played by Mekki Leeper), a new nurse raised in a Christian cult, add depth to the narrative.
The first two episodes of “St. Denis Medical” will premiere on NBC at 8pm ET on Nov. 12, with the rest of the episodes being aired every Tuesday, and available the following day on Peacock.
