Noah Wyle Returns to the ER in "The Pitt"

Is It More Trauma Than Drama? (S1, E1, Pilot Review)

January 18, 2025

Executive producer John Wells, known for “The West Wing” and “ER,” brings a similar feel to his new medical drama, “The Pitt.” Set in Pittsburgh, the show centers on Dr. Michael “Robby” Rabinavitch (Noah Wyle), a seasoned ER physician with a dry wit and deep commitment to his patients. Wyle perfectly embodies Robby’s exasperated yet dedicated persona, evident when he sarcastically thanks hospital administrator Gloria (Michael Hyatt) for the “abundance of resources” after a chaotic shift.

“The Pitt” distinguishes itself with a documentary-like visual style. The handheld camera work and quick cuts immerse viewers in the frenetic energy of the ER, effectively conveying the high-stakes environment.

Unlike other medical dramas focused on the doctors’ personal lives, “The Pitt” prioritizes the challenges of being a modern-day healthcare worker. The intensity of the trauma center is front and center, with unflinching depictions of horrific procedures. The show doesn’t shy away from showing blood and gore, arguably pushing the boundaries for the genre. A “gore warning” might be in order for squeamish viewers.

Adding to the realism is the depiction of an overcrowded waiting room, highlighting the strain on resources. During a scene where a doctor gives interns a tour, they emphatically state that patients have to wait “for eight hours,” and when asked if that’s usual, they reply, “it can sometimes be more.” This, coupled with close-up shots of medical procedures and the drugs administered, gives viewers a raw look at the realities of the healthcare system. This realism is amplified when Robby instructs interns to “check the waiting room periodically to make sure nobody dies” on their watch.

The life-and-death stakes are palpable, creating a sense of anxiety and tension that permeates every scene. The show is undeniably edgy, and it effectively conveys the intense pressure and anxiety of working in a busy ER. This is further heightened when student doctor Victoria Javadi (Shabana Azeez) faints after witnessing a particularly graphic procedure.

While I’m not usually a fan of medical dramas, finding shows like “ER” or “Grey’s Anatomy” overly melodramatic, “The Pitt” initially intrigued me with its focus on the day-to-day struggles of healthcare workers and the bureaucratic hurdles they face. Robby clashes with Gloria, who prioritizes patient satisfaction numbers over addressing the lack of resources that contribute to low scores. This conflict is further fueled by Robby’s cavalier attitude toward authority and his insistence on referring to the ER as “the pit,” a moniker that draws the hospital administrator’s ire. Despite being verbally reprimanded, Robby remains unfazed, his focus squarely on patient care rather than appeasing management. This adds a thought-provoking layer.

However, based solely on the pilot episode, “The Pitt” ultimately failed to fully engage me. The supporting characters and their performances felt somewhat average, and the plotlines lacked complexity and depth.

Viewers seeking a realistic medical drama emphasizing the challenges faced by healthcare providers might find something to appreciate in “The Pitt.” However, those looking for compelling characters and intricate storylines might be left wanting more — at least based on this first glimpse.

— Rob Tonkin