10 Iconic Characters We Need in the Scrubs Reboot with Zach Braff’s JD!

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The hit medical comedy “Scrubs” is making its comeback on ABC, and although the remake is still in the works, Zach Braff has confirmed that he will reappear as Dr. John “JD” Dorian, the series’ primary character. In the original show, JD was a prominent figure for eight seasons. Previously, Braff featured in the first six episodes of season 9, set at Winston University as a professor, before returning to St. Vincent’s Hospital, where he started working at the end of season 8 to be near his son.

There are still many unanswered questions about the upcoming Scrubs reboot, including who else from the main cast might be returning besides Zach Braff’s character. As we eagerly wait for more information, here are ten characters we hope will join J.D. in the revival of the show.

10. The Janitor

J.D.’s Main Rival Back For More Revenge

In the hit TV show “Scrubs,” J.D.’s most formidable adversary was none other than The Janitor (Neil Flynn). Their animosity, which could be described as a longstanding feud, stemmed from a seemingly innocuous event: J.D. dropping a penny into the hospital’s front sliding door, causing it to shatter. Over the course of eight seasons, The Janitor relentlessly made life difficult for J.D., ranging from stranding him on the rooftop to serving him a pie laced with laxatives.

One of the primary storylines in the early seasons of “Scrubs” revolved around the relationship between J.D. and The Janitor, which was more fear-based than friendly. However, when it was necessary or beneficial, The Janitor would form a temporary truce with J.D. Since Neil Flynn has appeared in various projects by Bill Lawrence after “Scrubs,” such as “Surviving Jack” and “Shrinking,” it’s not too far-fetched to envision The Janitor returning to cause trouble for J.D. again.

9. Dr. Cox

J.D.’s Unwilling Mentor Returns As The Veteran

Among all characters, none influenced J.D.’s life more significantly than Dr. Percival Ulysses Cox (played by John C. McGinley). Initially serving as a mentor for J.D., Dr. Cox transcended this role to become something of a father figure. He was the one who never shied away from telling him hard truths, even when J.D. didn’t want to hear them.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I can hardly envision a revival of the beloved series “Scrubs” without the presence of John C. McGinley, who is set to grace our screens once more in Bill Lawrence’s upcoming, as-yet-unnamed HBO production. Notably, he has also graced the Lawrence-led short-lived sitcom “Ground Floor.”

Imagining an older Dr. Cox alongside a seasoned Dr. Dorian within the realm of “Scrubs,” set a decade and a half into the future, promises to deliver captivating television. The intrigue deepens as we ponder the possibility of residual traces of J.D.’s persistent quest for Cox’s validation even after all these years.

8. The Todd

The Inappropriate Surgeon With A New, Serious Tone

In Scrubs, for every character that evolved or progressed with J.D. and the team, there were some who remained relatively constant. A prime example of this consistency was Dr. Todd Quinlan, fondly referred to as “The Todd” (portrayed by Robert Maschio). Known for his brashness, offensiveness, and inappropriateness, The Todd proved himself to be one of the most accomplished surgeons at Sacred Heart, doling out painful high-fives to anyone who crossed his path unaware.

Part of what made Scrubs special was the dynamic between its characters, both positively and negatively. The character known as The Todd provided an element of neutral disorder that served to counterbalance the seriousness that the show sometimes conveyed. If The Todd were to be reimagined in a world less accepting of his explicit comments, a more mature and restrained version of him could offer a refreshing twist on the character.

7. Hooch

He’s Definitely Crazy, And Would Be The Best New Old Running Gag

Dr. Hooch, an orthopedic surgeon at Sacred Heart Hospital, gradually slipped into insanity as portrayed in the popular TV show “Scrubs.” Known for being frequently pranked by J.D. and Dr. Christopher Turk (Donald Faison), Hooch’s actions reached a climax when he held four interns hostage during season 7, episode 5, leading to his dismissal from the hospital. Throughout the first eight seasons of “Scrubs,” Hooch’s descent into madness was a recurring joke, with J.D. and Turk being key instigators. The prospect of Hooch reappearing in a straitjacket, as he did in the season 8 finale, promises to bring back a beloved yet unsettling gag.

6. Dr. Kelso

Sacred Heart’s Former Chief Of Medicine Back For More Muffins

As a devoted viewer, I’d put it this way: Over the course of the first seven seasons, Dr. Bob Kelso (Ken Jenkins), the chilly, strategic Chief of Medicine at Sacred Heart Hospital, caused quite a stir in the lives of J.D., Dr. Cox, and the entire hospital staff. However, as the years rolled by, he unexpectedly displayed glimmers of compassion. Eventually, he retired to Coffee Bucks, where he indulged in free muffins every day until his final departure in the season 8 finale.

In season 9, Dr. Kelso made an entry as a professor, following the demise of his wife Enid. He appeared in nine episodes, setting up his cozy living quarters, which became known as his “love nest” dorm. The occasional appearances of Dr. Kelso served to further enrich the character development of Dr. Cox, adding depth to his long-standing role at Sacred Heart Hospital. This was particularly noticeable as he interacted with J.D., as well as any new doctors who had joined since then.

5. Keith Dudemeister

Funny Name, Tragic Story, Hopefully With New Found Love

In the narrative of “Scrubs,” Keith Dudemeister (Travis Schuldt) emerged as a significant character, playing the romantic lead for Dr. Elliott Reid (Sarah Chalke) throughout seasons 5 and 6. However, despite the indications that they were headed towards becoming Dr. and Mrs. Dudemeister, Dr. Reid ultimately chose to end their engagement, opting instead for a relationship with J.D.

Keith played a significant role as a beloved secondary character throughout the series, serving as a key catalyst for the romantic connection between J.D. and Elliott. It would be a delightful touch to revisit where Keith’s life took him over the years, reminiscent of the show’s earlier periods. While we imagine he has achieved great things and found success, we can only hope that Dudemeister had a chance at love before season 10 concluded.

4. Carla Espinosa

The Heart And Soul Of Sacred Heart Back To Balance Turk

Among all characters, Dr. Cox aside, Carla Espinosa (Judy Reyes) had the most profound effect on J.D., serving as a guiding light during his initial challenging years as a physician and stepping in to save him more often than either would prefer to remember. Present throughout the first eight seasons of Sacred Heart, Carla embodied the spirit and essence of the hospital, providing an unwavering moral compass, whether her advice was welcomed or not.

Despite most main actors reprising their roles for season 9, it was only Carla who was absent, choosing to become a stay-at-home mom instead of appearing at the new Sacred Heart Hospital. The absence of Carla’s character left Turk feeling somewhat awkward and imbalanced on screen, so we eagerly await her return in season 10 to rekindle their dynamic.

3. Denise Mahoney

J.D.’s True Apprentice – Brash, Abrasive, And Cold

One standout aspect of an otherwise fragmented Season 9 was the increased role for Dr. Denise Mahoney (Eliza Coupe), a character known for her blunt, unyielding, and straight-forward demeanor. Despite her challenges with empathy towards patients and coworkers, she added depth to the series when J.D. departed in Season 9, becoming Turk’s close companion instead. This shift created an unusual camaraderie that contributed significantly to the show’s progression as it moved forward.

If season 10 maintains all aspects of the initial Scrubs series, then season 9 is essentially necessary, regardless of its quality. In this context, Dr. Mahoney would be among the few continuity pieces that would logically fit into the reboot, given his role as J.D.’s true apprentice. A plot focusing on their relationship 15 years later could serve as a parallel to the dynamic between Dr. Cox and J.D., providing a retrospective backdrop for the reboot.

2. Jordan Sullivan

Jordan Humanized Dr. Cox And Helped Him Grow

As a devoted movie buff, I can relate to Dr. Cox’s complex journey. He made every effort to distance himself from those around him, but it was his ex-wife, Jordan Sullivan (Christa Miller), who stood steadfast. She wasn’t just a mere presence in his life; she was the anchor that tamed the stormy seas of Cox’s existence and professional relationships. By season 8, Dr. Cox came remarkably close to embodying his best self, largely due to Jordan’s unwavering dedication to his personal growth.

In a potential scenario, Miller, a current member of another Bill Lawrence production titled “Shrinking“, might effortlessly slide into a guest role or two. This could bridge the 15-year time gap between seasons 9 and 10 for Dr. Cox and his family, particularly as their son, Jack, would be mature enough to start medical school in season 10. It would undoubtedly bring joy to witness another Dr. Cox causing mischief and verbally assaulting J.D. on the Sacred Heart Hospital floors once more.

1. Dr. Turk

J.D. & Turk Are Like Peanut Butter & Jelly

It’s widely recognized that the heart of Scrubs lies in the friendship between J.D. and Dr. Turk. This duo shares a bond stronger than marriage vows, with their camaraderie serving as the cornerstone of the series. As these characters navigate through life’s uncertainties and challenges, they transition from medical students to seasoned doctors, husbands, fathers, and experts in their respective fields, all while the show documents their personal journeys and growth.

Since wrapping up their time on Scrubs, Braff and Donald Faison have continued their close bond, working together on various commercial ventures and podcasts like Real Friends, Fake Doctors, which delves into the behind-the-scenes tales of Scrubs. It’s hard to conceive a Scrubs reboot without Faison’s participation, and we can’t help but feel that his return is imminent, offering us more chances to savor the unique relationship between J.D. and Turk.

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2025-05-27 01:39