A reviewer explores the paradoxical joy of beloved shows returning, focusing on the new 'Scrubs' series. While initially concerned about its ability to adapt to modern sensitivities and the 'feelings police,' the show ultimately finds its stride, delivering its signature humor and tackling contemporary issues with heart, proving to be a surprising success.
The article discusses the reviewer's conflicted feelings about the resurgence of old TV shows – seeing it as creatively regressive yet loving the return of familiar characters, especially when they've visibly aged. The focus then shifts to the new series of 'Scrubs' on Disney+, which the reviewer 'mainlined' in its original run. The returning series sees JD as a complacent private doctor, Turk suffering from burnout, and Dr. Cox still electrifying but clashing with a new wellness/HR figure, Sibby, who polices his 'tough love' with calls for 'cultural sensitivity.' The reviewer expresses initial dismay at the show's preoccupation with 'feelings police' jokes, finding it a defensive and boring response to modern cultural sensitivities. However, after two episodes, the show 'decides it can only be itself,' embracing its characteristic humor and tackling significant contemporary issues such as the dehumanizing US healthcare system, patient quotas, TikTok diets, and orthorexia, all while demonstrating affection for minorities. While new, younger characters don't immediately click, the enduring chemistry between the original leads (Zach Braff as JD, Donald Faison as Turk, and John C. McGinley as Dr. Cox) is strong enough to sustain the series. The reviewer concludes that they 'liked this far more than I expected,' praising its ability to deliver humor and heart, ultimately giving it 'some love.'
