Disney+ Medical Thriller Series Perfects The Binge Viewing Formula
It’s been 12 years since the last season of House aired on Fox, but the medical drama following the world’s grumpiest doctor has not disappeared. And, if Disney has anything to say about it, it won’t. The House of Mouse recently picked up this iconic show and added it to the Hulu section of Disney+ (a beta program that requires viewers to have both streaming services), likely in hopes that the timeless series will draw viewers to the platform and help save the streaming service from going under.
House, M.D.
Television has been graced by numerous medical dramas over the years, but few have left as memorable a mark as House, M.D. Created by David Shore, the series premiered on November 16, 2004, and concluded its eight-season run on May 21, 2012. Set in the fictional Princeton–Plainsboro Teaching Hospital, House follows the brilliant but abrasive Dr. Gregory House, portrayed masterfully by Hugh Laurie, as he leads a team of diagnosticians through a labyrinth of medical mysteries.
The House Formula
Like all medical dramas, every episode of House follows an impossible plot filled with melodramatic characters and memorable storylines. But part of what makes House stand out is that the series really shouldn’t work. The main character of the show is a horrible human being, and, yet, somehow, he’s exactly what makes the show so bingable.
Dr. House is a misanthropic genius with a penchant for unorthodox methods and a dependency on pain medication due to a debilitating leg injury. House’s team of diagnosticians, which evolves over the series, includes a diverse array of characters, each contributing their unique expertise to unravel complex medical cases. From Dr. James Wilson, House’s only true friend played by Robert Sean Leonard, to the talented yet troubled Dr. Allison Cameron (Jennifer Morrison) and the stoic Dr. Eric Foreman (Omar Epps), the dynamics within the team add layers of intrigue and depth to the narrative.
House Stands Alone
What sets House apart from other medical series like Grey’s Anatomy or Scrubs is its exploration of the human condition amidst the backdrop of medical dilemmas. Each episode presents a new diagnostic challenge, often delving into the moral and ethical implications of medical decisions. Dr. House’s unorthodox approach to patient care, coupled with his unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth, leads to frequent clashes with hospital administrators and colleagues alike.
House Is Loved By Fans And Critics Alike
House garnered widespread critical acclaim throughout its run, earning accolades such as five Primetime Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Peabody Award. The series’ success can be attributed to its compelling storytelling, nuanced character development, and Hugh Laurie’s captivating portrayal of the titular character. Critics lauded Laurie’s performance as “electrifying” and hailed the show as a “complex meditation on misery,” exploring themes of addiction, redemption, and the pursuit of truth in the face of adversity.
House’s Legacy
While a series like House probably wouldn’t find as much success in today’s world, the show remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of flawed yet compelling characters. Its blend of medical drama, psychological intrigue, and philosophical musings elevates it beyond the confines of traditional television, making it not only an easily bingable show but a journey of introspection, exploration, and revelation.
