Life or Death, Minute by Minute: ‘The Pitt’ Full Season Review
During its early stages, The Pitt quickly made the rounds on TikTok with viewers claiming it as the most accurate medical drama in recent memory. Though I’m no expert, the immersive and often visceral experience the show delivers certainly tracks with its supposed attention to detail.
The whole season unfolds within the claustrophobic timeframe of a single shift – all taking place in a chaotically understaffed emergency department in a hospital in Pittsburgh. The uniquely ambitious structure, with each episode representing one hour of a 15-hour shift, throws viewers headfirst into the world of healthcare.
Photo credit: Max
From the intense and complicated procedures to the emotional developments of the characters, The Pitt encapsulates both the grit and vulnerability of the human condition.
Leading the cast that brings it to life is Noah Wyle who plays the big boss (attending physician), Dr Robby. This role marks a welcomed return to the hospital TV scene for Wyle who famously portrayed John Carter on 90s acclaimed series ER.
Photo credit: Max, Wyle (left) manages to convey a nuanced performance with just his eyes in this emotional scene.
Joining the experienced cast are fresh talents, like Patrick Ball (Dr Langdon), whose performance holds its own, particularly when he and Dr Robby confront in the middle of the season.
Yet, like much of the rest of the audience, my favourite character has to be Dr King. Performed by the daughter of Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston, Taylor Dearden, her technical and emotional intelligence paradoxically shines through her awkward but charming demeanour.
Photo credit: Max, despite their polar opposite personalities, Dr King (left) and Dr Langdon (right) share a surprisingly fun chemistry
Interestingly, however, many viewers mistake her for a medical student rather than the seasoned resident she clearly is, which highlights the show's occasional reliance on overly technical language that sacrifices clarity.
Another standout is Isa Briones as Dr Santos. By contrast, she emerges as consistently irritating yet undeniably compelling.
Photo credit: Max, Dr Santos (right) is annoyingly rude to her coworkers like her junior, Javadi (left)
Together, there are no weak links in this ensemble, creating an authentic portrayal in the often over dramatic genre (looking at you, Grey’s Anatomy).
In fact, this isn’t even your typical soundtrack-heavy network show. Instead, The Pitt opts for sparse yet powerful instrumentals that swell only during the most critical moments. It often blends seamlessly into the background that its absence becomes a subtle and important contributor to the show’s stark realism.
Ultimately, this only serves to reinforce the show’s social commentary. Not only does it tackle hot-button issues beyond medical concerns, like America’s gun problem, it also sheds light on overlooked topics like the trauma faced by healthcare workers during the recent pandemic. That said, the show sometimes falls into the common trap of being overly didactic, which can momentarily pull you out of the otherwise grounded narrative.
My biggest critique isn’t even really a criticism at all—I just wish the episodes were longer! Like many netizens, I feel that each episode could have easily occupied the full hour it represents. With the weekly episodes ending on cliffhangers, rather than the one-shot drops typical of streaming platforms, it always left me craving for more. Despite the fast pace, no moment felt too rushed.
Beyond the screen, The Pitt is poised to make waves with Emmy buzz suggesting a well-deserved comeback for Wyle, who earned five nominations for his role in ER.
Adding to the anticipation, news has already surfaced that production for the next 15-episode season is well underway. Set 10 months after the events of the first season, it will take place during one of America’s most violent holidays: the Fourth of July.
For those yet to experience the gut-wrenching reality of The Pitt, the series is available to stream on Max. Although tempting to binge, I recommend to pace yourself. This will help you to fully appreciate the show’s innovative structure and allow the weight of each hour to sink in.
