6 best medical shows ever made
Medical shows are often hit or miss – they can run the risk of being too cheesy, too gory and who ever saw so many attractive people in a hospital anyway? Let’s take a look back on some of the medical dramas (and comedies!) that won us over with their tales of tragedy, love and hope.
1. ER
This medical drama, which first aired back in 1994 and ran for an impressive 15 seasons until it was cancelled in 2009. Playing host to some of the biggest names in show business (including launching George Clooney to stardom), ER told the stories of the patients and staff in a busy Chicago hospital. In its 15-year history, the show racked up a record 124 Emmy Award nominations – of which it won 23 – making it the most-nominated drama in history.
2. Marcus Welby, M.D.
One of the original medical programs, Marcus Welby, M.D. featured Robert Young and James Brolin as two doctors who butted heads over their methods, but always worked together to get the best result for their patients. It candidly covered medical topics like depression, cancer, sexual health, learning disabilities and Alzheimer’s disease. Both Young and Brolin won Emmys for their performances, but the series was cancelled in 1976 due to medical dramas’ falling popularity.
3. Doc Martin
Possibly the only ever TV doctor to be scared of blood, Martin Clunes’ portrayal of the small town GP Dr Martin Ellingham won him legions of fans around the world. Since first airing in 2004, the show has been adapted into series in Spain, France, Germany, Austria, Greece, the Netherlands, Russia and the Czech Republic. It has been reported that a US version is currently in talks, to be led by Friends co-creator Marta Kauffman.
4. M*A*S*H
M*A*S*H was the multi-genre hit which took the world by storm between 1972 and 1983. Starring Alan Alda and Loretta Swit, the 11-season series was set at the “4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital” (M.A.S.H) during the Korean War. Often called one of the greatest TV shows of all time, M*A*S*H won 14 Emmys and gave us some of the most memorable characters, stories and quotes on television.
5. Grey’s Anatomy
Starring Ellen Pompeo, Patrick Dempsey, Katherine Heigl, Karen Oh and Jeffery Dean Morgan, this ground-breaking medical drama first hit our screens in 2005 and quickly became a favourite around the world. Known for its portrayal of strong, smart women and its racially diverse cast, Grey’s Anatomy has brought us plenty of drama over the years – both on and off screen. It has just finished airing its 12th season.
6. St. Elsewhere
Denzel Washington soared to fame thanks to his role on this gritty medical drama set in a Boston hospital. Running from 1982 to 1988, the series also featured Hollywood heavyweights Ed Begley Jr., Howie Mandel and Mark Harmon. Despite not being a huge ratings success, St. Elsewhere earned itself a cult following and received an impressive 13 Emmys in its 6-season run. And who could forget that twist ending? Don’t worry – we won’t spoil it for you!
Which of these TV shows is your favourite? Are there any you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.
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