In the world of television, few shows have left as indelible a mark as St. Elsewhere. Despite never truly breaking into the mainstream, this medical drama managed to punch far above its weight, launching careers and setting a template for future medical dramas. But what truly sets St. Elsewhere apart is its groundbreaking storytelling and its audacious finale, which has become a landmark in TV history.
The show, created by Joshua Brand and John Falsey, ran for six seasons on NBC from 1982 to 1988. It followed the staff and patients at a struggling Boston hospital, taking a grittier approach to storytelling than its predecessors. While other hospital dramas focused on lead characters whose personal lives didn't interfere with their work, St. Elsewhere presented a more realistic and complex portrayal of medical professionals, with overlapping, serialized stories that often dealt with the harsh realities of healthcare.
This style was initially seen as a barrier to success. In a review from November 1982, THR critic Richard Hack wrote, "So real and graphic is the drama being presented here that we cannot believe that 20 million people across this country will find it entertaining enough to flip to." But, as it turned out, the show's unique approach was exactly what audiences were craving.
St. Elsewhere went on to win 13 Emmys over its run, including six for its fourth season in 1986. It was nominated for best drama series in all six seasons, though it never took home that honor. The show's regulars, including William Daniels, Bonnie Bartlett, and Ed Flanders, won acting Emmys for their roles, and it also had a keen eye for emerging talent, helping to launch the careers of Denzel Washington, Mark Harmon, David Morse, and Howie Mandel.
However, it was the series finale that truly cemented St. Elsewhere's place in TV lore. The episode suggested that the entire show may have taken place inside the imagination of Tommy Westphall (played by Chad Allen), the autistic son of Dr. Donald Westphall (played by Ed Flanders). This audacious choice was perhaps the most daring move an already groundbreaking show could make.
What makes this finale so fascinating is the way it challenges our perception of reality and storytelling. It raises a deeper question about the nature of truth in television and the power of imagination. In my opinion, this finale is a testament to the show's boldness and its willingness to push the boundaries of what a television series can be.
St. Elsewhere's impact on the medical drama genre cannot be overstated. Its influence can be seen in shows like ER, Grey's Anatomy, and The Pitt, which all adopted the show's gritty, serialized storytelling approach. But it's the show's willingness to take risks and challenge conventions that truly sets it apart, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of creators.
