Fox has announced details for 'Best Medicine,' a new one-hour comedy series adapting the UK hit 'Doc Martin.' Starring Josh Charles as the brilliant but blunt Dr. Martin Best, the show follows his move to a quirky Maine fishing village. A trailer was released on November 3, highlighting the series' humor and ensemble cast.
Overview
'Best Medicine' is an American adaptation of the long-running British series 'Doc Martin,' which aired for 10 seasons from 2004 to 2022. The new Fox series centers on Dr. Martin Best, a skilled surgeon who leaves his Boston career to become the general practitioner in a small East Coast fishing village from his childhood summers. His abrasive bedside manner clashes with the eccentric locals, though he gets entangled in their lives despite his desire for solitude. The show explores his hidden phobia and psychological struggles, with the town's residents potentially helping him heal.
Cast and Characters
Josh Charles leads as Dr. Martin Best. Abigail Spencer portrays Louisa Gavin, a warm schoolteacher who sparks tension and intrigue with Martin. Josh Segarra plays Sheriff Mark Mylow, Louisa's ex and a charming local forming a love triangle. Cree is Elaine Denton, an aspiring YouTube star inept at her receptionist job. Annie Potts stars as Aunt Joan, Martin's tough, loyal relative with her own secrets. Recurring roles include Didi Conn as councilwoman Geneva Potter, Clea Lewis as pharmacist Sally Mylow, and others like Stephen Spinella and John DiMaggio. Martin Clunes, the original Doc Martin, guests as Martin's estranged father, Dr. Robert Best.
Premiere and Production
The series premieres in January 2026 on Fox, with an exact date forthcoming. Executive producers include Ben Silverman, Howard T. Owens, Rodney Ferrell, Liz Tuccillo, Mark Crowdy, and Philippa Braithwaite. Michael Thorn, Fox Television Network president, praised the adaptation: "The story of Doc Martin has resonated worldwide with its humanity, originality, and humor." Ben Silverman added, "Josh Charles is the perfect lead for this brilliantly character-driven comedic procedural."
Trailer Highlights
The November 3 trailer introduces Martin's arrival, his preference for 'Dr. Best' over 'Doc Martin,' and interactions with locals like Sheriff Mylow and Louisa, teasing comedy and budding romance.