Get Ready for Your Next TV Obsession: Fox's "Best Medicine" Brings a Quirky New Doctor to Town

Imagine moving to a quaint East Coast fishing village, hoping to escape your past and practice medicine in peace. Now imagine the entire town immediately starts calling you "Doc Martin!" to your profound irritation. That's the setup for Fox's upcoming comedy-drama, Best Medicine, an American reimagining of the beloved British hit, Doc Martin.

TL;DR: The Quick Prescription for What You Need to Know

• Josh Charles stars as Dr. Martin Best, a brilliant but socially awkward surgeon who becomes a small-town GP.
• The series is a U.S. remake of the hugely popular British series Doc Martin and premieres in January 2026 on Fox.
• Original Doc Martin star Martin Clunes will guest-star as Dr. Best's father, adding an exciting link for fans.

A Brilliant Surgeon, a Quirky Village, and a Very Familiar, Irritating Nickname

The first trailer for Best Medicine gives us a peek at Dr. Martin Best, played by the Emmy-nominated Josh Charles, whom you might remember from "The Good Wife." Dr. Best is a brilliant surgeon who, for reasons yet fully explored, abruptly leaves his high-flying career in Boston. He relocates to a charming East Coast fishing village where he spent childhood summers, aiming to become the local general practitioner and perhaps find a quieter life.

However, the local townspeople have other ideas about his "quiet" existence. Despite Dr. Best's clear insistence on his proper name—"Dr. Best, actually," he replies with a weary patience—they've enthusiastically adopted the moniker "Doc Martin!" The teaser prominently shows this, from the local restaurant to the town fair. This immediate clash between the doctor's desire for professionalism and the town's charmingly persistent familiarity sets the tone for what's described as a "charmingly complicated one-hour comedy." Source: [TVLine, "Josh Charles Stars As Doc Martin In Fox's Best Medicine – Watch First Trailer", Nov. 3, 2025]

Unpacking the Blunt Bedside Manner: More Than Meets the Eye

Dr. Best's blunt, often borderline rude, bedside manner quickly rubs the quirky, needy locals the wrong way. He openly states he doesn’t "care about silly little festivals or gossip like everyone else in this town. I'm here to work." Yet, the official logline for Best Medicine hints at deeper complexities beneath this icy exterior. It reveals that his terse demeanor masks a debilitating new phobia and "deep-seated psychological issues that prevent him from experiencing true intimacy with anyone."

This creates a compelling central conflict: a man who can expertly handle any medical ailment or mystery but struggles profoundly with personal connection. The series will explore how this isolated doctor is continually "dragged right smack into the middle of their personal chaos, feuds and fantasies," suggesting that the very community he tries so hard to push away might be "exactly what the doctor ordered" for his own healing.

The Star-Studded Cast Bringing the East Coast Village to Life

Beyond Josh Charles's leading role, Best Medicine boasts an impressive ensemble cast ready to populate this vibrant East Coast village. Viewers can look forward to:

• Abigail Spencer ("Timeless," "Suits") as Louisa Gavin, the charming local school teacher. She's described as immediately getting off on the wrong foot with Martin but, intriguingly, finds herself drawn to him.
• Annie Potts ("Young Sheldon," "Designing Women") as Aunt Joan, Martin's strong, sturdy lobster-woman aunt who still goes out on her boat daily. She's salt of the earth, loves her town and cranky nephew, but even she holds a few secrets, including why she lost touch with Martin years ago.
• Cree ("Game Shakers," "Mr. Iglesias") as Elaine Denton, Martin's assistant who is charming but inept at her job, often more focused on becoming a YouTube star than on medical admin.
• Josh Segarra ("The Other Two," "Abbott Elementary") as Sheriff Mark Mylow, a lovable lawman who knows his town inside and out. Still healing from a recent breakup with Louisa, he's eager to get to know Dr. Best, setting up a potential love triangle.
• Martin Clunes, the original "Doc Martin" himself, will make a special guest appearance as Dr. Robert Best, Martin's father. Robert is an accomplished gastroenterologist, a headstrong man whose stoicism makes his son seem warm by comparison, and he's hiding secrets that could turn Martin's new life upside down. This cameo is a fantastic nod to the show's origins and a definite treat for long-time fans. Source: [Us Weekly, "Everything to Know About Doc Martin Remake Best Medicine", May 2025 (updated Oct 2025)]

Other supporting cast members include Didi Conn as councilwoman Geneva Potter, Clea Lewis as pharmacist Sally Mylow, Stephen Spinella and Jason Veasey as the happily married proprietors of The Salty Breeze, Cindy De La Cruz as schoolteacher Jeannie, John DiMaggio as handyman Burt Large, Carter Shimp as Burt's son Al Large, and the adorable dog cast member, Wattson, playing pup Copernicus.

From Cornish Charm to East Coast Quaintness: The Enduring Legacy of "Doc Martin"

The original British series, Doc Martin, which aired on ITV from 2004 to 2022, was an undeniable global phenomenon. It averaged a remarkable 9 million viewers per episode in the UK and was screened in over a dozen countries, with local remakes flourishing in places like Spain (where he was reborn as Doctor Mateo) and Russia. Source: [Radio Times, "Revisiting Doc Martin's global adaptations – remakes from Spain to Russia", Nov. 4, 2025]

Its reach in the U.S. alone grew from a mere 7% to a staggering 97% over its run, demonstrating the universal appeal of a brilliant but curmudgeonly doctor in a charming small town. This widespread adoration even led to "Clunatics," devoted fans who traveled to Port Isaac, Cornwall, where the original show was filmed, to soak up the atmosphere and buy merchandise. They loved "Doc Martin" for his honesty and directness, appreciating a character who simply said what everyone else wished they could.

Why Fox is Betting Big on This New Medical Comedy-Drama Remake

Fox Television Network President Michael Thorn expressed significant excitement about Best Medicine, noting that the network sees it as a perfect opportunity to expand its comedy offerings. It's been almost a decade, he pointed out, since Fox featured a one-hour comedy. Thorn lauded the original format for its "humor, charm, optimism, and edge," highlighting the enduring appeal of its "funny, surprising, flawed, no filter character who happens to be a brilliant doctor."

"We love this story for its humor, charm, optimism, and edge, not to mention its standing as a proven 10 season global hit out of the U.K. It’s been almost a decade since we’ve had a one hour comedy on Fox. So introducing this signature Fox character and his story is the perfect fit for us. There really is nothing like Best Medicine on broadcast TV today."

— Michael Thorn, President of Fox Television Network (Source: Us Weekly, May 2025)

He also praised Liz Tuccillo, the adapter for the American version, for skillfully capturing these qualities, particularly the "messy characters" that resonate so well with Fox's audience. The original's "wonderful, quirky ensemble of supporting characters" and the "aspirational small town setting" are key ingredients Fox believes will make this remake a new long-running hit.

Navigating the Challenges of Remaking a Beloved Global Hit: A Balancing Act

Remaking a show with such a dedicated, almost cult-like, fanbase presents a unique set of challenges. One might wonder if the U.S. version can truly capture the same subtle charm and dry wit that defined the British original, or if existing "Clunatics" will fully embrace a new "Doc Martin" without their beloved Martin Clunes in the lead. The casting of Clunes himself as Dr. Best's father is a brilliant strategic move, providing a direct, familial link and a potential bridge for loyal fans, while also creating an intriguing new dynamic for fresh viewers to enjoy.

Furthermore, the show's title, "Best Medicine," while a clever pun, might initially confuse some who know and love the original simply as "Doc Martin." However, this choice could also be a strategic way to signal a fresh take, inviting new audiences without relying solely on the original's name recognition, especially given the original's already extensive U.S. reach. This change allows the new series to carve out its own identity while still acknowledging its roots. Source: [Bleeding Cool, "Best Medicine Teaser Previews FOX's Remake of UK's "Doc Martin"", Nov. 4, 2025]

Example: The Clunatic's Dilemma

Take Sarah, a retired teacher from Ohio. For years, her ritual involved rewatching Doc Martin DVDs, savoring every grumpy retort and heartwarming village interaction. When she heard about Best Medicine, her first reaction was a mix of excitement and skepticism. "How can anyone replace Martin Clunes?" she wondered. But then she saw the news about Clunes guest-starring as Josh Charles's father. "Well," she mused, "if Martin himself is giving it his blessing, maybe it's worth a shot. I'll still have my Cornish Port Isaac, but a little East Coast charm could be... refreshing." Her trepidation highlights the tightrope remakes walk between honoring the original and forging their own identity.

Your January 2026 TV Prescription: What to Expect from "Best Medicine"

Best Medicine promises to be a compelling blend of humor and drama, focusing on personal growth within a quirky community. The series is currently filming in upstate New York, building a new East Coast setting for its unique blend of medical mystery and small-town shenanigans. With a strong creative team, a talented cast, and a proven format, Fox is clearly aiming for a new long-running hit.

Practical Takeaways for Viewers

• Mark Your Calendars: "Best Medicine" premieres in January 2026 on the Fox linear channel, so clear your schedules!
• Catch It Online: Can't watch live? New episodes will be available the very next day on Hulu and Hulu On Disney+.
• Expect Familiarity with a Fresh Twist: If you loved the original "Doc Martin," you'll find similar themes and character archetypes, but with a distinct American sensibility and a slate of fresh faces.
• Prepare for Heart & Humor: The show aims for a balance of comedic situations arising from Dr. Best's difficult personality and the deeper emotional journey of his psychological struggles.
• Don't Miss the Original Doc's Cameo: Keep a keen eye out for Martin Clunes's guest appearance as Dr. Robert Best; it's sure to be a highlight for long-time fans and a fascinating character dynamic for newcomers.

FAQ: Your Questions About "Best Medicine" Answered When does "Best Medicine" premiere? "Best Medicine" is slated to premiere in January 2026. Where can I watch "Best Medicine"? You can watch it on the Fox linear channel, and new episodes will be available the next day on Hulu and Hulu On Disney+. Is "Best Medicine" a remake of "Doc Martin"? Yes, it's a U.S. remake of the hugely popular British ITV series "Doc Martin." Who plays the main character, Dr. Martin Best? Emmy nominee Josh Charles plays the titular Dr. Martin Best. Sources

• TVLine, "Josh Charles Stars As Doc Martin In Fox's Best Medicine – Watch First Trailer", https://tvline.com/news/best-medicine-trailer-josh-charles-fox-doc-martin-remake-video/ (Accessed: Nov 3, 2025)
• Deadline, "‘Best Medicine’ Teaser: Josh Charles Is An Ornery But Brilliant Surgeon In Fox’s U.S. ‘Doc Martin’ Remake", https://deadline.com/2025/11/best-medicine-teaser-josh-charles-fox-doc-martin-remake-1236622524/ (Accessed: Nov 3, 2025)
• Radio Times, "Revisiting Doc Martin's global adaptations – remakes from Spain to Russia", https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/comedy/doc-martin-global-adaptations-remakes-newsupdate/ (Accessed: Nov 4, 2025)
• What's On Disney Plus, "‘Best Medicine’ First Look Video Released For Upcoming FOX Series", https://whatsondisneyplus.com/best-medicine-first-look-video-released-for-upcoming-fox-series/ (Accessed: Nov 3, 2025)
• Us Weekly, "Everything to Know About Doc Martin Remake Best Medicine", https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/pictures/best-medicine-doc-martin-remake-details-cast-release-date/ (Accessed: May 2025, updated Oct 2025)
• Bleeding Cool, "Best Medicine Teaser Previews FOX's Remake of UK's "Doc Martin"", https://bleedingcool.com/tv/best-medicine-teaser-previews-foxs-remake-of-uks-doc-martin/ (Accessed: Nov 4, 2025)