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Best Medicine: How a British Hit Became American
6 Aug
Summary
- American dramedy Best Medicine is inspired by British series Doc Martin.
- The setting is updated from a Cornish village to Port Wenn, Maine.
- Martin Clunes, star of Doc Martin, guest-starred as the protagonist's father.
The television success story of Best Medicine began over 20 years ago, now reimagined for American audiences.
The Fox medical dramedy, starring Josh Charles and Abigail Spencer, updates the premise of the beloved British series Doc Martin. While the original was set in Cornwall, England, Best Medicine brings the story to the fictional coastal town of Port Wenn, Maine.
This American adaptation maintains the central relationships and humor, focusing on Dr. Martin Best's adjustment to small-town life after leaving Boston. The narrative explores how medical cases draw Dr. Best into the lives of his patients, diverging from high-stakes emergencies.
The original inspiration traces back to the 2000 British film Saving Grace, featuring Martin Clunes as Dr. Martin Bamford. This character's popularity led to TV movies and eventually the international hit series Doc Martin, where Clunes reprised his role as a doctor with hemophobia.
Showrunner Liz Tuccillo aimed to honor the original while making the series distinctly American. Executive producer Ben Silverman saw the potential for an American adaptation, noting the connection he felt to the show's core idea.
Adding a notable crossover, Martin Clunes guest-starred in Best Medicine's first season as Dr. Robert Best, Martin's estranged father. This connection is set to continue, with Clunes returning for the second season, which premieres in September 2026.
Best Medicine is one of many global adaptations of Doc Martin, which has inspired versions in Germany, France, Greece, and other countries. The original series has aired in over 130 countries.
