Doctor Odyssey: Why We Need Season 2 & Joshua Jackson's Return
6 June 2025

Doctor Odyssey: Why We Need Season 2 & Joshua Jackson's Return

The fervent plea to save Doctor Odyssey has sparked a debate, and the question is: why is a second season so vital, and why must Joshua Jackson continue his acting career? John Oliver's passionate defense of the show has ignited conversations about its impact and potential.

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Some television shows gain unexpected popularity through various avenues, such as endorsements from talk show hosts or fellow actors. One recent example is comedian John Oliver's impassioned speech advocating for the renewal of ABC's Doctor Odyssey after just one season. However, this support has led to one of the lead actors hinting at potential retirement, and we can't let that happen.

Why Doctor Odyssey Deserves a Second Season

Doctor Odyssey, which premiered last fall, immediately showcased the signature style of Ryan Murphy productions. It is filled with drama, romance, and intriguing storylines. Set aboard the cruise ship "The Odyssey," the show revolves around Dr. Max Bankman (Joshua Jackson), Nurse Practioner Avery Morgan (Phillipa Soo), and Nurse Tristan Silva (Sean Teale).

These medical professionals treat passengers for everything from sunburns to shark bites requiring limb amputations. The crew miraculously handles delivering babies and performing complex surgeries, all while at sea. Beyond medical emergencies, passengers and crew engage in hedonistic pursuits, ensuring the Odyssey is a voyage focused on pleasure.

Doctor Odyssey employs glossy filters and somewhat unrealistic scenarios, blurring the line between reality and fantasy. This has fueled season-long discussions about whether the events unfold in a dreamlike state. The show's intriguing premise and engaging characters have undeniably captured the audience's imagination.

Despite generating buzz, particularly around the main characters' throuple dynamic, Doctor Odyssey hasn't consistently achieved impressive ratings for ABC. The series' high production costs demand a larger viewership to justify its continuation. This has placed the show in a precarious position, with its future uncertain even after ABC's fall lineup announcement.

Disney TV Studios chief Eric Schrier acknowledges the show's inventiveness and supports its continuation, deferring the final decision to Ryan Murphy. Schrier states that the decision lies with Ryan Murphy, "whether Ryan wants to continue to do it, and he feels like there's stories to tell that he feels confident in."

Hopefully, a passionate fan like John Oliver can sway Murphy to commit to a second season. Will the show be saved from cancellation?

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John Oliver's Advocacy and Joshua Jackson's Response

Oliver, known for his outspokenness, passionately defended Doctor Odyssey on his HBO show, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. He criticized ABC for not renewing the series, calling them a "disgrace and a disaster".

He the show's appeal, describing it as "sexy ER on a boat" and "The Pitt with sharks." Oliver's enthusiasm is undeniable, but his may have inadvertently prompted Jackson to jokingly consider retirement.

Jackson, a fan of Oliver's support, expressed his gratitude in an interview. He quipped that Oliver's shout-out meant his career could end, feeling he'd "made it" by appearing on Oliver's show. While likely jesting, Jackson's response has ignited discussion about the importance of his continued presence on screen.

Even if Jackson was joking, the series' end shouldn't mean the end of his career. His portrayal of Max Bankman has showcased a lighter, more humorous side that audiences enjoy. Shouldn't we see more of Max saving lives and relaxing by the pool?

The Importance of Joshua Jackson's Role

Jackson's career includes serious roles in Dawson's Creek and The Affair. However, Doctor Odyssey allows him to display his comedic talents, proving his worth as a regular television presence. The role has been transformative for him.

With Oliver's passionate defense of a second season, it's clear that Doctor Odyssey has resonated with a wide audience. Despite lower ratings, devoted fans are pleading for more episodes. What other medical crises and character developments await on the high seas?

The cancellation of Doctor Odyssey would be a disservice to the fans and a potential travesty if Jackson seriously considers retirement. We urge ABC to heed Oliver's call and give the series another chance. The premise of "sexy ER on a boat" is too compelling to abandon. Will ABC listen?

Season 1 of Doctor Odyssey is available on Hulu in the U.S.