Why You Should Rewatch All 15 Seasons of ‘ER’ – A Timeless Medical Drama You Can’t Miss!

When I was 8, I watched George Clooney save a boy from drowning on “ER.” That moment revealed two things to me: I was heterosexual, and “ER” was an amazing show. Looking back, both statements still hold true.

I first dove into all 15 seasons of “ER” in 2019, shortly after it came to Hulu. Recently, with the release of “The Pitt,” a new show from “ER” producer John Wells, I started another rewatch. “ER” stands out in the crowded field of medical dramas for many reasons.

Almost 100,000 subscribers binged “ER” within five months of its Hulu debut. Interestingly, two-thirds of these viewers were women, and the average age of an “ER” binge-watcher was about 27 — they were just toddlers when the show premiered back in 1994.

Why does “ER” remain so popular? It aged remarkably well. While some aspects, like the treatment of transgender patients, were less than ideal, the show mostly grew alongside cultural shifts. It tackled tough topics like addiction, AIDS, PTSD, and more, often well before they became mainstream discussions on TV.

A highlight came in Season 7 when Dr. Kerry Weaver, played by Laura Innes, started dating a woman. Innes noted how groundbreaking this was at the time, marking a bold step for a major character on a mainstream show.

“ER” profoundly captured life’s value, even amid the frequent loss depicted on screen. Take the character Dr. Mark Greene, played by Anthony Edwards. Greene faced struggles—violent attacks, loss, and marital issues—yet continued to lead with compassion. In a heartbreaking finale, he succumbs to a brain tumor. At 14, I felt his journey resonate deeply, especially around the theme of mortality.

After avoiding that particular episode for years, I revisited it during my most recent rewatch, right after my father passed away. Watching it again helped me process my grief. The emotional honesty in Greene’s story mirrored my own experiences, leading to a cathartic release.

In the end, Greene’s farewell highlighted a life well-lived, despite the sadness. Producer Jack Orman noted that while his departure was sad, it carried a life-affirming message.

While “ER” had its ups and downs, the show eventually regained its momentum with a new crop of characters, including the likes of John Stamos and Angela Bassett, who brought fresh energy in later seasons.

As “ER” approached its final season, the producers beautifully wrapped up character arcs and reopened storylines with returning favorites. Dr. Greene’s daughter became an intern, creating a powerful full circle moment.

The series ended with the staff preparing for an influx of patients, symbolically suggesting that the doors of County General Hospital remained open and that life continues on, even after the screen fades to black.

When I first watched the finale, I felt disappointed. Now, I appreciate its subtlety and the idea that County General is still buzzing with life, and thanks to streaming, we can always revisit that world.