If you’re a fan of “The Pitt,” you’ll appreciate the reboot of “Scrubs.”
Cut from the same cloth, they humanize the world of medicine and, in the case of the latter, let you laugh with and at them depending on the circumstances.
In the new edition of “Scrubs,” J.D. (Zach Braff) returns to Sacred Heart, where one of his concierge patients is admitted. He sees the old gang and realizes the kind of medicine he practices isn’t as rewarding as the kind they encounter. He’s given an offer (in a very heartfelt way) that brings him back into the fold in a teaching position.
Now, he’s the one training another generation. The times have changed: An internet influencer is among the mix. When he tries to call her out (the way Dr. Cox did), he’s pulled back by an administrator (Vanessa Bayer) who won’t allow nicknames or sexist behavior. That puts a different spin on “Scrubs” and a new way for J.D. and Turk (Donald Faison) to trade barbs. Those interns have distinct personalities and mirror those in “The Pitt” (and some of the employees in “St. Denis Medical”).
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Braff, as director of the first episode, brings back series hallmarks and maintains a sprightly approach that Faison manages to parrot. Elliott (Sarah Chalke) doesn’t get as much screen time in the first episodes, but finds her footing eventually.
While the “sensitivity training” tack is difficult to embrace, the veterans manage their way around it and get an antagonist (Joel Kim Booster) who wants to hold the chief of medicine title. Booster is a super addition and a way to keep the two buddies in check.
Stories hit on issues important to health care and let Braff go on flights of fancy that suggest his lot in life isn’t as ideal as it may seem.
While the janitor (played by Neil Flynn) is missed and The Todd is now called “A” Todd, there are still moments that comfort, particularly in an arena that can often be unsettling.
“Scrubs” doesn’t have the same smile-age as “St. Denis,” but its return provides the same peace of mind that a great doctor can offer.
As soon as the interns are up to speed, it’s likely this revival could take another turn and give the originals, including a softer Carla (Judy Reyes), the opportunity to scrub in on issues they never considered decades ago.
The reboot of “Scrubs” begins its new season Feb. 25 on ABC.
