It's Happening! 'Scrubs' Duo Zach Braff & Donald Faison Confirm Blockbuster Revival [Exclusive]

Fans of the beloved series Scrubs are set to experience a new form of reunion, as Zach Braff and Donald Faison, known for their roles as J.D. and Turk, are bringing back their popular rewatch podcast, Fake Doctors, Real Friends. This announcement comes ahead of the Scrubs revival's second season, with Braff and Faison exclusively revealing they are in "final negotiations" to transition the podcast into a professional studio setting. The revamped podcast will shift its focus to the new generations of characters and storylines introduced in Season 1 and Season 2 of the revival, offering an in-depth exploration alongside the returning original cast.

Fake Doctors, Real Friends initially gained significant traction, especially after its launch in March 2020, coinciding with the global COVID-19 lockdowns. During a period of widespread isolation, the podcast provided a much-needed source of comfort and connection, inviting listeners into the genuine friendship between Braff and Faison, a dynamic often compared to their on-screen counterparts. Its success was further amplified by the regular appearances of original co-stars and crew members, including creator Bill Lawrence, director Michael Spiller, Sarah Chalke (Elliot), Judy Reyes (Carla), and John C. McGinley (Doctor Cox). These conversations illuminated the authentic chemistry that existed both on and off-screen, contributing to the podcast's unique appeal and helping to pave the way for the cast's eventual return for a brand-new series.

The move to a studio setting marks a significant "glow-up" for the podcast, which began with Faison recording from his closet. This professional evolution is inspired, in part, by Dax Shepard's "Armchair Expert" podcast, known for its cozy studio environment and in-depth conversations. This new format will enable Braff and Faison to dissect episodes from the revival, such as Season 1's "My Return," with the same candidness and humor that defined their original run. It also opens doors for discussions with new cast members, like Ava Bunn, who portrays Doctor Sam Tosh and has been promoted to a series regular, offering fresh perspectives on joining the Scrubs universe.

Beyond being a platform for behind-the-scenes anecdotes, the revived Fake Doctors, Real Friends podcast is poised to deepen its connection with the Scrubs revival. By discussing episodes and characters in detail, the podcast can serve as a natural companion to the show, encouraging listeners to stream the new seasons on Disney+. Faison also hinted at a more expansive scope for the podcast, aiming to explore the characters' lives beyond Sacred Heart Hospital, delving into their personal challenges and home lives. This approach promises to examine the emotional core of the new series, reinforcing the blend of humor and human connection that has always been Scrubs' greatest strength. Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, while the two-episode premiere of the Scrubs revival is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 8:00 p.m. EDT/PDT on ABC, streaming the following day on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.