In the world of television, nothing stays gone forever. This year has already seen exciting new projects emerging from beloved universes like The Office and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and now, the iconic 2000s hospital sitcom Scrubs is set to make a comeback.
It’s been 24 years since Zach Braff first stepped into the role of JD, the idealistic junior doctor navigating the chaos of Sacred Heart Hospital. Now, Braff is officially returning to reprise his iconic role for ABC’s upcoming Scrubs reboot. The new series is expected to feature a blend of fresh faces and familiar characters from the original show.
This isn’t the first time such an idea has been attempted. Back in Season 9, ABC tried a similar approach by introducing a younger cast while still featuring Braff and other original actors. Unfortunately, that season was met with mixed reactions and was ultimately canceled after just nine episodes.
Zach Braff returns as JD in the Scrubs reboot. Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic.
Now, nearly two decades later, the network is giving it another shot. The revival will be led once again by Scrubs creator Bill Lawrence and is being developed as a hybrid reboot and revival — bringing back the heart of the original while introducing new stories and characters.
With Braff’s involvement confirmed, Entertainment Weekly reports that more original cast members are likely to return as well.
As Bill Lawrence previously explained to Deadline:
“We've been talking about a lot, and I think the only real reason to do it is a combo. A: people wanting to see what the world of medicine was like for the people they love — which is part of any successful reboot. And B: this show always worked because you get to see young people dropped into the world of medicine, knowing these young doctors are super idealistic and pursuing medicine as a true calling.”
Originally airing from 2001 to 2010, Scrubs delivered 182 heartfelt and hilarious episodes over its run. While there’s no official word yet on when production will begin on the new episodes, fans are eagerly awaiting further updates.
Stay tuned for more details as they become available.