CBS is moving forward with its developing medical drama starring Jared Padalecki, as Variety has learned that the network is officially opening a writers’ room for the project. The untitled series was first revealed to be in the works back in January, and the launch of a writers’ room signals that CBS has strong confidence in the show as part of its year-round development strategy.
This approach follows the network’s recent decision to advance the legal drama “Cupertino” from Robert and Michelle King, which was officially picked up to series in October. Now, the momentum continues with the Padalecki-led drama entering a crucial stage of development.
Anna Fricke serves as the writer and executive producer through her Pursued by a Bear banner. Padalecki will star in the series while also executive producing, joined by Laura Terry of Pursued by a Bear. CBS Studios is on board to produce. Fricke is currently under an overall deal with the studio, while Padalecki has a first-look producing deal there as well.
The network’s official logline offers a clearer look at the story, stating, “A headstrong, devoted doctor (Padalecki) practices his unique style of improvisational medicine alongside his new protégé, a young doctor escaping her past, as they operate a mobile clinic and heal the bodies and souls of their underserved community in the medical desert of rural Texas.”
The new project marks a reunion for Padalecki and Fricke, who previously collaborated on the CW hit “Walker.” The series, a reboot of “Walker, Texas Ranger,” starred Padalecki, with Fricke developing the show and serving as showrunner. Both also executive produced the prequel “Walker: Independence,” which Fricke co-developed with Seamus Kevin Fahey. “Walker” aired for four seasons on The CW, while “Walker: Independence” ran for one season.
Padalecki remains widely recognized for his iconic 15-season performance as Sam Winchester on the beloved CW/WB series “Supernatural.” His additional credits include “Gilmore Girls,” as well as feature films such as “Flight of the Phoenix” and “House of Wax.” Fricke’s writing career spans fan-favorite series including “Dawson’s Creek,” “Everwood,” “Wayward Pines,” and “Valor.”
