The highly anticipated 30-minute ABC revival of Scrubs brings Dr. John “J.D.” Dorian (Zach Braff) and Dr. Christopher Turk (Donald Faison) back to Sacred Heart Hospital, their iconic bromance as robust as ever. While many elements of their professional lives remain familiar, including appearances from beloved returning characters throughout the season, significant shifts in personal relationships introduce new challenges and deepen existing bonds. J.D., for instance, navigates uncharted waters with Dr. Elliot Reid (Sarah Chalke) as they attempt to forge a new normal post-divorce. Concurrently, he strives to mentor a new generation of interns while grappling with the often-somber realities of healthcare. During an interview with Collider, co-stars Braff, Faison, and Chalke, whose real-life camaraderie is evident, discussed key aspects of the revival, including the return of a beloved prop, the motivations behind their comeback, and the evolving dynamics of their characters.

A significant point of discussion revolved around the potential return of Rowdy, the taxidermied golden retriever. When asked if the fate of Rowdy was their first concern, Donald Faison expressed, “I miss Rowdy, and I miss Steven.” Zach Braff then revealed an exclusive detail: the Rowdy seen in the revival is a recreation. Due to the original prop’s natural deterioration over the years, a new version was commissioned, with Braff humorously noting the original’s condition, akin to an artifact stored in a “Disney vault.”

The decision to return to the beloved series, more than 15 years after its conclusion, was primarily driven by creator Bill Lawrence. Braff emphasized the importance of Lawrence’s vision in resetting the show’s tone, aiming to return to the comedic reality that characterized the early seasons. Lawrence, despite other commitments, was deeply involved in defining the revival’s direction and rules. Faison added that the comeback truly “felt real” when the majority of the original cast, or “OG cast,” committed to participating, highlighting the necessity of their collective presence.

The cast also shared humorous anecdotes about fan interactions. Braff recounted multiple instances of fans having him tattooed on their bodies, including one peculiar case where a fan had his signature tattooed after he signed her existing tattoo. Faison noted the prevalence of “Eagling tattoos,” referring to the iconic pose shared by J.D. and Turk. While their characters might face new physical limitations on screen, Faison clarified that he, at 51, remains physically fit, capable of squatting 250 pounds and benching 120 pounds, contrasting with Turk’s portrayed struggles to carry J.D.

A major plot development involves the revelation that J.D. and Elliot are divorced and are now navigating post-divorce life and co-parenting. Sarah Chalke expressed enthusiasm for this new dynamic, finding more comedic and dramatic potential in their challenges than in a simple “happily married” scenario. Braff disclosed that Elliot was the one who initiated the divorce, indicating that their characteristic on-again, off-again bickering likely persisted through their marriage. J.D. is depicted as grappling with the separation, learning to co-parent and work alongside Elliot, and confronting the emotional impact of seeing her interact with other doctors. Faison observed that the divorce deeply affected J.D., leading him to make Elliot’s professional life “a little bit more difficult.”

Donald Faison also lauded the enduring relationship between Turk and Carla (Judy Reyes), proclaiming them the “cutest couple ever in the history of television.” He stressed the importance of showcasing lasting love on screen. The revival depicts Turk and Carla at home with their four daughters, a storyline Faison enthusiastically embraced, especially given Judy Reyes’s commitment to return despite her leading role on another top television show. Faison humorously asserted their superiority over other iconic TV couples, including Lucy and Desi, Sam and Diane, and even the Brady Bunch, conceding only that Turk and J.D. might be a cuter pair.

The new cast members, including Joel Kim Booster, have been met with praise. Booster plays a new antagonist for J.D., skillfully pushing his buttons and vying for his job with significant comedic improvisation. Braff and Faison commended the fearlessness and commitment of all new additions, including guest stars like Vanessa Bayer, Phill Lewis, and Rob Maschio. Sarah Chalke shared an amusing anecdote about struggling to maintain composure during takes with Vanessa Bayer, whose unique delivery and improvisation often led to uncontrollable laughter on set.