‘This Is Going to Hurt’ Is a Fantastic Alternative to ‘The Pitt’

The second season of The Pitt confirms the show is a lasting success, though plenty of other good medical dramas are still available. Since its debut last year, the cast of The Pitt has received high praise for their realistic portrayals of staff at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center. The show’s success stems from its honest depiction of the challenges faced by healthcare workers in a world changed by COVID-19. What sets The Pitt apart is its format – similar to shows like 24, each episode focuses on a specific period within a continuous hospital shift.

If you enjoyed The Pitt, another excellent choice is the British comedy-drama This Is Going to Hurt. It’s based on Adam Kay’s memoir about his time working for the UK’s National Health Service. Many consider it one of the best medical dramas of recent years, and while it’s different from The Pitt, it’s a great option for anyone interested in a realistic look at the challenges of healthcare work.

‘This Is Going to Hurt’ Offers a Dark, Comedic Take On the UK’s Health Service

Set in 2006, This Is Going to Hurt stars Ben Whishaw as Adam Kay, a tired and witty doctor working in a busy NHS labor and delivery ward. The show also follows his coworker, Shruti Acharya, played by Ambika Mod, as she navigates the challenges of working in obstetrics and gynecology. This comedy frequently breaks the fourth wall, with Adam directly addressing the audience amidst the chaotic and often ordinary moments of their workdays.

Okay, so while the show is funny, it’s also genuinely heartbreaking. This Is Going to Hurt has a really dark comedic edge – which, honestly, you’d expect given what it’s about – but it doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to showing just how tough and draining working in the NHS can be. There’s a lot going on, with unexpected plot twists and character deaths that really hit hard because you often see them coming. I was especially drawn into Adam’s story – his struggle to come to terms with his sexuality and share it with his family is compelling, and seeing how he juggles that with his work and his relationship with Harry adds a lot of depth to the show.

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While This Is Going to Hurt doesn’t have the same high-stakes drama as shows like The Pitt, it stands out for its realistic portrayal of everyday life in the NHS. The series focuses on the often frustrating administrative side of healthcare, showing how it can create more problems than solutions. Even though it’s a short miniseries – just seven episodes – it’s a captivating watch, and fans of The Pitt will likely find it equally enjoyable despite its different approach.

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2026-01-26 21:32