Pre-strike: The medical drama aired new episodes until January, despite the fact that the Writers Guild of America strike began in November 2007. From the beginning of the season, ER has been introducing new characters to the show, which has been good and bad.
Good in the sense that these intriguing characters have brought new interest to the drama and have helped to further define the regular cast on the show (for example, how Abby’s alcohol-induced one-night stand with Dr. Moretti, played by Stanley Tucci, could potentially end her marriage to Luka).
It's bad in the sense that just when these new characters started to really grab viewers’ attention, they were taken off the show. I was disappointed that Reiko Aylesworth’s character, Julia, left the show just as we saw a more vulnerable side to the otherwise strong, put-together woman.
Post-strike: Since its return on April 10, ER has picked up where it left off in January, furthering storylines and relationships (such as Abby’s struggle to tell Luka the truth, and Sam and Gates giving into their attraction). It's also introduced another new character, Dr. Simon Brenner (who we’ve discovered is Dr. Anspaugh’s nephew!).
Character Development: There are two characters that grew a lot this season – Pratt and Abby. Pratt has been learning quite a bit about himself this season and has been working hard to prove himself, not just professionally but personally as well. After not being selected as chief of staff, Pratt has been determined to let his leadership skills shine. And despite Bettina telling him their relationship is over, Pratt found himself wanting to prove he could be the man she needed him to be.
Meanwhile, this season has been a big one for Abby. We’ve seen her struggle with Luka’s absence and trying to take care of Joe on her own, which turned out to be more than what she could handle and led her to begin drinking again. Her bout with alcoholism put her son in danger, put a strain on friendships and has ultimately affected her marriage. While she is determined to put her life back together, it seems this bump in the road has forever changed her life.
Cliffhangers/Wrap Up: I wish I could predict good things for the future of Abby and Luka, but I suspect that their relationship is sadly coming to an end. I will say, though, that I believe Abby will get the job as attending. As for other staff at County General, I think Pratt will finally commit and Sam and Gates will become the new It couple.
Overall Grade:
