The final season of Scrubs aired over 15 years ago. However, the workplace medical sitcom will receive new life with an upcoming revival. That means J.D., Turk, Elliot, and many of the gang are back. This time around they are the elder statesmen helping train the next generation of medical interns.
The series doesn’t miss a step with the legacy cast. They are the same lovable characters with the same entertaining chemistry. Zach Braff and Donald Faison can keep up the endearing and energetic bromance even at the older age. Although the passage of time has allowed the characters to mature making them fit into their veteran leadership roles. In addition, their midlife problems they face seem relevant to viewers who grew up with the original. The revival also introduces interesting dynamics that cause drama and tension within the close-knit group.
Unfortunately, the new Scrubs cast members are a mixed bag. The medical interns all conveniently fit into a stereotype including the cocky handsome loner, the influencer, and the overly idyllic one. The surgical interns are even less developed and aren’t more explored until a few episodes in. The charge nurses (Michael James Scott and X Mayo) and Sibby the workplace monitor (Vanessa Bayer) are similarly one note so far, but comedically stand out and make the most of their opportunities. Also, Dr. Park (Joel Kim Booster) is a worthy antagonist who is cold, cunning, and very capable.
The revival learned its lesson from the ninth season. The main focus is on the legacy characters with J.D. serving as the narrator and person who initiates the fantasy sequences. That way, the audience can gradually become familiar with all the new players. There is the feeling there are too many characters to follow for a sitcom. Everyone receives screen time, and many have their own narratives, but it’s not enough to adequately provide depth for the newbies. So, when the interns receive a meatier storyline such as a romance, it seems forced.
Scrubs is updated to reflect the health care industry of today’s world. It provides a humorous slant to the technology and appropriate workplace behavior while also aiming sharp commentary towards the issues with the system. The medical setting can be heartbreaking so it provides a lighter emotional touch to make the taste less bitter and more sweet.
The revival delivers the comfort, laughs, and dream sequences of the original but with more maturity. It might come at the expense of the new characters, but viewers might be okay with that.
The two-episode series premiere of Scrubs airs Wednesday, February 25, on ABC.
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