I find NBC’s new mockumentary “St. Denis Medical” particularly compelling. Premiering on November 12, 2024, this series brings a fresh perspective to the medical comedy genre, blending humor with heartfelt moments. At the TCA Press Tour, the cast and creators offered a fascinating preview of what to expect from this unique show.

“St. Denis Medical” is set in an underfunded, understaffed hospital in Oregon, where dedicated doctors and nurses strive to provide the best care while dealing with their personal and professional challenges. The choice of Oregon as the setting is both a nod to an underrepresented state and a tribute to a nurse who inspired one of the characters. Co-creator and showrunner Eric Ledgin explained, “Oregon was chosen for a couple reasons. One is I just feel like it’s a very underrepresented state. It’s a great and beautiful state that you don’t hear a lot about.”

The town of Merrick, where the hospital is located, adds to the show’s charm. It’s named after Ledgin’s hometown, a practical choice after other options didn’t clear. This fictional setting provides a backdrop for exploring the lives of the hospital staff both inside and outside their workplace.

The mockumentary format allows for a unique storytelling approach, blending direct-to-camera addresses with traditional narrative elements. Justin Spitzer, co-creator and executive producer, discussed the nuances of this style: “We use it to set up story, we use it for comedy. I think we use the existence of it more than a lot of others. Like you’ll occasionally hear the documentarian offscreen ask a question so there’s a little bit more awareness than I’ve seen in some other shows.”

This approach adds layers to the characters, allowing them to interact with the camera and the audience in ways that feel both intimate and authentic. The cast, which includes Wendi McLendon-Covey, David Alan Grier, Allison Tolman, Kahyun Kim, Mekki Leeper, and Kaliko Kauahi, excels in this format, bringing their characters to life with depth and humor.

Wendi McLendon-Covey, known for her role in “The Goldbergs,” takes on a different type of character in “St. Denis Medical.” She plays a non-nurturing hospital administrator who is devoted to her job but detached from personal connections. “All I wanted was to not play another mom right away because I did that for a long time. What I loved about this character is that she is not nurturing at all. Don’t come near her wanting a hug. She does not want your germs and she cannot keep a plant alive but she is devoted to this hospital,” McLendon-Covey shared.

David Alan Grier, with his background in both comedy and drama, brings a rich complexity to his role as an experienced, albeit curmudgeonly, doctor. Reflecting on his career and the opportunity to play such a character, Grier said, “I really thought I’d be retired now. I did not know that there would be a place for me in the industry. I didn’t know that people would want to see me. So this is all gravy. This is all icing on my cake.”

One of the show’s strengths is its ability to balance comedic moments with the inherent drama of a medical setting. Hospitals are places where people experience some of the most significant moments of their lives, both tragic and triumphant. Ledgin emphasized this duality: “We’re very conscious of the fact that this is where people have some of the most important moments of their lives. It’s also where some of the funniest moments in people’s lives take place.”

Allison Tolman, who plays a nurse, highlighted the charm of finding humor in mundane activities amidst high-stakes situations. “We get to play these folks who are reattaching arms but then also just like have to eat. Like it’s lunchtime, you know? Also, I need some coffee because I was up all night with the baby or whatever. I find something really charming about the mundane in the most extreme circumstances,” Tolman explained.

“St. Denis Medical” doesn’t shy away from addressing social issues. The show’s setting in an underfunded hospital reflects the real-world challenges faced by many healthcare institutions. The characters’ personal struggles and interactions provide a lens through which viewers can explore broader societal themes, such as healthcare disparities and the emotional toll of medical professions.

The series also highlights the importance of representation and diversity. David Alan Grier spoke candidly about his experience as a Black actor and the significance of portraying a character whose race is not a focal point of the storyline. “To me, at this point in my career, to do a character and not explain my Blackness and my right to exist anywhere is a relief. So I just kind of play it. As a viewer, I want to see that,” Grier said.

As “St. Denis Medical” prepares to premiere, the anticipation is high. The show’s unique blend of comedy, drama, and mockumentary style promises to engage audiences and offer a fresh perspective on the medical comedy genre. With a talented cast, thoughtful storytelling, and a commitment to addressing social issues, “St. Denis Medical” is poised to make a significant impact.

For those who enjoy shows that make them laugh while also making them think, “St. Denis Medical” is a must-watch. Its premiere on November 12, 2024, is sure to be the beginning of a new favorite in the television landscape.

Series Premiere November 12 on NBC (8-9 p.m. ET/PT).