If You Never Watched "ER" Back In The Day, Here’s Every Reason You Should Start Now

Why ER Is Still Must-See TV After All These Years

I have been hooked on ER after watching the pilot mere months ago. Even though I am in the middle of Season 2, I have seen enough to declare this show a worthy watch for anyone who enjoys TV dramas.

Here are 11 reasons why you should start watching ER today, tonight, or RIGHT NOW:

With the rise of the Primetime Emmy award-winning HBO show The Pitt, I decided to give ER a try. It didn't disappoint. Executive producer John Wells of The Pitt helped produce ER. And The Pitt/ER connections lead to another obvious reason why you should watch...

As medical student John Carter, Noah Wyle brings spirit and depth to his character. If you love him as the grizzled vet of The Pitt, Carter offers a perspective of who young Dr. Robby could have been.

3.

Author Michael Crichton's Vision

Crichton was not only the creator and an executive producer on ER, but his 1974 screenplay titled "EW" (Emergency Ward) inspired the entire series. "EW" is based on Crichton's experience as a med student (which is why the show feels so authentic). His other great books you probably heard of include Congo, Timeline, and a little-known book called Jurassic Park (lol).

4.

We Love A Nighttime Soap Opera

This might seem like a slight or negative to some, but the series does indeed have its soap-opera-adjacent moments. Whenever we leave County General, we get a closer look inside the personal lives of these healthcare workers. There's plenty of romantic drama as well as life-threatening events that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

5.

ER Is Legitimately Funny

It may sound hard to believe, but the comedy is truly there. The show has plenty of heart-wrenching moments, and its comedy comes in the moments we get to breathe. For ER, that could range from sarcastic remarks to a full-blown circus.

6.

Real-Life Conversations

ER really puts you in the patient's (and doctor's) shoes, and will make you question: What would I do? Topical storylines involve AIDS, crack, racism, abuse, sexism, homophobia, addiction, transphobia, suicide, ageism, and so many more issues that are tackled in each episode.

7.

You Have 15 Seasons To Enjoy

Longevity matters when you start watching a series, and ER seemed to leave viewers satisfied with its conclusion. Obviously, there are ups and downs among the ratings like any show that runs this long...but so far, I am loving it!

8.

ER Has Characters You Care About

The core characters are all extremely compelling and because of that, the storylines are that much better. Each person feels different...and real. The dynamic between characters is also unique, which makes for in-house friendships and rivals. It truly feels like a real work environment that even non-medical drama fans can relate to.

9.

Medical Realism And Gutting Emotions

The show's medical realism is one of the main reasons it receives so much praise. Although it is not as graphic as The Pitt these days, ER was definitely gruesome for '90s primetime television.

10.

ER Tackles The Ethics Of Healthcare

Not everything is cut and dry. The same goes for medicine. Every episode presents a new dilemma that makes the characters question their morals and the healthcare system. Decisions need to be made...and fast. The show does a phenomenal job of showing the toll it takes on healthcare workers, and its effects on patients.

11.

And Lastly: ER Is Medical Drama Royalty

Listen, you should watch ER if you like any of these shows besides The Pitt: Grey's Anatomy, Chicago Med, The Resident, House, The Good Doctor...hell, even Scrubs. Without a doubt, ER walked AND ran so that these other shows could join the race. It set the tone.

What's a reason you think someone you know should give ER a chance? Share in the comments below!

Stream all of the episodes of ER on HBO Max.