Shania Twain Returns to TV in New Cruise Ship Drama

Following the success of the paramedic drama 9-1-1, Ryan Murphy is introducing a new procedural drama premiering on ABC this fall. Doctor Odyssey features Joshua Jackson as the onboard doctor of a luxury cruise ship. Jackson’s character, Max, faces high-stakes medical emergencies while dealing with equally dramatic personal interactions.

Joshua Jackson, known for his iconic role as Pacey Witter in Dawson’s Creek, shared some insights into the show earlier this year. He hinted that Doctor Odyssey is not your typical procedural drama, reflecting Ryan Murphy’s unique and often outrageous storytelling style.

The series promises to be a compelling mix of medical drama and luxurious travel escapism. The plot follows Max, the newly appointed doctor on a cruise ship where the staff is known for working hard and playing harder. Max and his team are tasked with navigating unique medical crises, as well as their own interpersonal dynamics, all while being miles from shore.

Doctor Odyssey is written and executive produced by Ryan Murphy, alongside Jon Robin Baitz and Joe Baken. Both Baitz and Baken have a history of collaborating with Murphy, making this project a promising addition to their repertoire.

The series is scheduled to premiere on Thursday, Sept. 26, at 9 p.m. ET on ABC. It will air in a prime time slot, right between Murphy’s 9-1-1 and Grey’s Anatomy, ensuring a significant viewership.

Joshua Jackson leads the cast, bringing his extensive television experience to the role. He has appeared in shows like Fringe, The Affair, When They See Us, and the podcast adaptation Dr. Death.

Joining Jackson is Phillipa Soo, who gained fame as part of the original cast of Hamilton, playing Eliza Hamilton. Soo has also appeared in films like Tick, Tick…Boom! and series like Hulu’s Dopesick.

Veteran actor Don Johnson is another key cast member. Known for his roles in Miami Vice and Nash Bridges, Johnson has more recently appeared in projects like Django Unchained, Knives Out, and HBO’s Watchmen.

Adding to the star-studded cast is country music star Shania Twain. Teasers show Twain dancing aboard the Odyssey, with ABC hinting at her being the first of many notable guest stars in the series’ first season.

Doctor Odyssey was filmed in Los Angeles, California. While the cruise ship is the show’s primary setting, thanks to soundstage filming, viewers can expect scenes portraying various exotic locations fitting for a luxury cruise.

An official episode count for the first season hasn’t been released, but based on similar series like 9-1-1, the season could span anywhere from 10 to 18 episodes.

Although there is no full trailer for Doctor Odyssey yet, ABC did release a teaser on Aug. 26, giving a first glimpse into the show’s thrilling and dramatic atmosphere.

Source: ABC