Science and medicine may not seem like the most exciting subjects to base a drama around. However, shows based on doctors and hospitals end up being some of TV’s juciest. They are often some of the most enduring shows, too.
Actors Who Have Played Doctors
Many actors who have played doctors or nurses have risen to fame with these roles. Medical series like ER, Grey’s Anatomy, and House feature stars that we instantly envision with the titles. In each series, these TV doctors stand out thanks to their unique personalities and medical knowledge.
For example, Patrick Dempsey‘s character, Dr. Derek Shepherd, on Grey’s Anatomy, is one of the most iconic characters of the past few decades. He was a member of the show’s core cast from the early seasons, where he eventually fell in love with Ellen Pompeo’s Meredith Grey.
His character is nicknamed “McDreamy” by his coworkers. He is one of the best surgeons at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital, saving countless lives in the series. In the series’ 11th season, Derek is involved in a fatal car accident while driving to the airport.
Dempsey was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series Drama for the role, and the 2006 SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Drama Series.
Then, in the comedy realm, Dr. Zoidberg from the hit animated series Futurama is an alien crustacean. Though his character is a doctor, Zoidberg is ridiculously ill-informed, and the other characters in the series question his credentials often. Despite the constant criticisms from his friends, Zoidberg works hard throughout the series to help his crew however he can and actually improves his practice as the years go on.
Take a look below at the actors who have played doctors on television:
