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Veteran Actor Defends Chicago Med's Gritty Realism Amid "The Pitt" Acclaim
29 Sep, 2025
Summary
- "The Pitt" earned critical acclaim for its unique approach, but Chicago Med is no less realistic
- Steven Weber, 64, says both shows depict the challenges of the medical field in a realistic way
- Chicago Med showrunner praises "The Pitt" star Noah Wyle as a "lovely guy"

As of September 2025, the medical drama landscape is heating up with two acclaimed shows offering distinct perspectives. "The Pitt," which premiered earlier this year, has earned critical praise for its unique approach to documenting the daily grind of an emergency room. However, according to veteran actor Steven Weber, 64, the grit and realism of Chicago Med should not be overlooked.
Weber explains that while the two shows revolve around doctors and nurses in emergency situations, they offer different perspectives. "It's a different world they're looking at than the world we're looking at. And ours is no less realistic. Ours is no less gritty," he says of Chicago Med, which focuses on the Windy City's emergency department.
The Chicago Med showrunner, Allen MacDonald, echoes this sentiment, praising "The Pitt" star Noah Wyle as "the nicest, gentlest guy." MacDonald, who previously worked as a writer's assistant on the iconic medical drama ER, believes both shows are striving to authentically depict the challenges of the medical field.
As fans eagerly await new episodes of "The Pitt" next year, Chicago Med is set to return this week for its 11th season. The show's previous season left off with a cliffhanger, as Dr. Hannah Asher learns she is pregnant but keeps the father's identity a secret. Viewers will have to tune in to see how this storyline unfolds.