Netflix has introduced a new medical drama titled Pulse, which made its debut on April 3, 2025. The show is being described as a blend of Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, offering a mix of intense workplace drama and high-stakes medical emergencies. Set within the fictional Maguire Medical Center in Miami, Pulse follows the tumultuous life of third-year resident Dr. Danielle 'Danny' Simms, played by Willa Fitzgerald, as she navigates both personal and professional challenges.
From the outset, viewers are thrust into a whirlwind of drama as a hurricane approaches Miami, bringing with it a surge of patients and chaos at the hospital. Danny is not only facing the pressures of a natural disaster but is also embroiled in a deeply complicated relationship with her boss, chief resident Dr. Xander Phillips, portrayed by Colin Woodell. Their relationship takes a dark turn when Danny reports Xander to HR for sexual harassment, setting off a chain of events that complicates both their personal and professional lives.
According to creator and co-showrunner Zoe Robyn, the series delves into the complexities of workplace relationships, particularly those with significant power imbalances. "What happens if you’re in love with your boss?" Robyn asks, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. Throughout the ten episodes, Danny's journey is fraught with challenges, including her rise to the coveted title of chief resident, a title she ultimately loses to her best friend, Dr. Sam Elijah, played by Jessie T. Usher.
As the season progresses, Danny's relationship with Xander becomes increasingly strained. In the finale, Xander confesses to the hospital review board about a tragic incident from his past at Kennedy Hospital, where he inadvertently caused the death of a young patient named Julio. This revelation, which Xander had kept hidden due to a family cover-up, adds layers of complexity to his character and his relationship with Danny.
Fitzgerald described the moment of filming the finale as cathartic for her character, who ultimately finds peace in the tumultuous tides of her life. "It was an amazing moment for the character as well," she told Tudum, emphasizing the emotional release that Danny experiences. By the end of the season, after navigating a series of personal and professional upheavals, Danny is left swimming alone in the Miami surf, symbolizing her newfound freedom.
The supporting cast of Pulse also plays a crucial role in the narrative. Dr. Natalie Cruz, played by Justina Machado, is the chair of surgery and emergency medicine, facing her own challenges as hospital leadership changes. In a surprising twist, she announces that ER attending doctor Patrick Sanchez will become the chair of emergency medicine, a decision that leaves her feeling undermined despite her significant contributions to the hospital.
Meanwhile, Dr. Tom Cole, portrayed by Jack Bannon, finds himself in a complicated love triangle with nurse Cass Himmelstein and EMT Nia Washington. His inappropriate relationship with Nia leads to professional repercussions, showcasing the series' exploration of ethical dilemmas in the medical field.
As the season unfolds, flashbacks reveal the depth of Danny and Xander's relationship, including their initial romance that blossomed at a Maguire donor gala. The couple's journey is marked by intense highs and lows, culminating in a heartfelt confession of love in the finale. However, the question remains whether they can navigate the complexities of their relationship in the face of professional challenges.
Robyn and executive producer Carlton Cuse have crafted a narrative that reflects the real-life struggles faced by medical professionals. Woodell, who plays Xander, noted that the series aims to depict the personal investment doctors have in their patients, acknowledging the emotional toll that comes with such responsibilities. "You saw the personal investment that can sometimes happen with a patient — how hard you can take it if something were to happen to them," he explained.
As the season wraps up, viewers are left with questions about the future of the characters and the potential for a second season. Although Netflix has not yet announced a renewal, the show's creators have hinted at the possibility of exploring further developments in the characters' lives. With the groundwork laid for deeper storylines and character arcs, fans are eager for more.
While Pulse draws comparisons to Grey's Anatomy, it also seeks to carve out its own identity within the medical drama genre. The series aims to address contemporary issues, such as workplace harassment and the complexities of personal relationships in high-pressure environments. As Robyn pointed out, the show explores how work families can become just as significant as biological families in today's society.
As for the cast, Fitzgerald's performance as Danny Simms has garnered attention, especially given her prior roles in Scream: The TV Series and the BBC adaptation of Little Women. Her ability to portray the emotional turmoil of a young woman striving for success in a challenging environment resonates with viewers. Alongside her, the ensemble cast, including Usher, Machado, and Bannon, brings depth and complexity to their characters, making Pulse a compelling addition to Netflix's lineup of original programming.
With its mix of personal drama, medical emergencies, and ethical dilemmas, Pulse promises to keep viewers engaged and invested in the lives of its characters. As the first season concludes, audiences are left anticipating what the future holds for Danny, Xander, and their colleagues at Maguire Medical Center.
