St. Elsewhere: Living or Dead?

About St. Elsewhere

St. Elsewhere: The Groundbreaking Medical Drama That Redefined Television

In 1982, television audiences were introduced to a new kind of medical drama that would change the genre forever. St. Elsewhere, created by Joshua Brand and John Falsey, was a gritty, realistic portrayal of life inside a struggling Boston hospital. But it was more than just a medical drama; it was a show that tackled social issues, explored complex characters, and pushed the boundaries of what was possible on network television.

St. Elsewhere was a critical and commercial success, earning 13 Emmy Awards over its six-season run. It boasted a talented ensemble cast that included Denzel Washington, Ed Begley Jr., and Howie Mandel, among others. But what set the show apart was its willingness to take risks and tackle controversial topics. It addressed issues like AIDS, abortion, and mental illness in a way that was both sensitive and thought-provoking.

The show also had a unique narrative structure that set it apart from other medical dramas. Each episode was framed as a day in the life of St. Eligius Hospital, with the characters and storylines weaving in and out of each other. This allowed for a more nuanced and complex portrayal of the hospital and its inhabitants.

St. Elsewhere was not without its controversies, however. The show's controversial series finale, which revealed that the entire series had taken place inside the mind of an autistic child, was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. Some praised the boldness of the twist, while others felt it was a cop-out.

Despite its divisive ending, St. Elsewhere remains a landmark television series that paved the way for other groundbreaking dramas like ER and Grey's Anatomy. Its impact can still be felt today, nearly 40 years after it first premiered.

References:

- "St. Elsewhere." IMDb, IMDb.com, www.imdb.com/title/tt0083483/.

- "St. Elsewhere." Rolling Stone, 10 Mar. 1983, www.rollingstone.com/tv/tv-reviews/st-elsewhere-249408/.