How Healthy Is ER's New Blood?
By Christine Champagne
I'm not a doctor, and I don't play one on television. But I have spent years studying the physicians on ER, I have visited the set, and I shout
out the word "intubate" every once in a while just because I hear it so much on the
show. Therefore, I am uniquely qualified to assess the condition of the medical drama's newest cast members. My
assessment is based on my observations of their work and some routine tests performed at my home lab. And now for my expert opinion:
Patient: Dr. Dave Malucci (Erik Palladino)
Workup: Dr. Malucci or, rather, Dr. Dave, as he likes to be known is a second-year resident. While he is certainly a wiseass, you
can't help but like the guy: He brings some much-needed levity to the emergency room.
Adding to his appeal is the fact that he isn't all fun and games. Dr.Dave has a chip on his shoulder because he attended medical school in Grenada
and is out to prove himself.
Diagnosis: Dr. Dave is in good health.
Prescription: Keep giving us Dr. Dave, but in small doses, please!
[all new characters were "diagnosed" as well]