The OC's Ben McKenzie lines up TV return with new lead role

ben mckenzie, 2022
The OC's Ben McKenzie lines up TV returnJamie McCarthy - Getty Images
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The OC's Ben McKenzie is returning to TV with a leading role in The Hurt Unit, an upcoming medical drama from ABC.

According to Deadline, the new show will follow a skilled team of trauma surgeons and nurses, lead by "self-made surgeon" Danny (McKenzie), as they race into the field to treat patients.

When the sick and injured can't get to the ER in time, it's up to the Hurt Unit (Hospital Urgent Response Team) to bring the ER to them.

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Danny is described as a gifted surgeon who is able to make "split-second decisions in the most harrowing circumstances," though he's also a "pathological risk-taker who seems headed for a serious comeuppance".

Michelle Ortiz (This Fool) has been cast as Ruth, a trauma nurse on the Hurt Unit who assists Danny in performing surgeries in dangerous situations.

Ruth is described as the "glue" of the team, combining "bone-dry wit with the ability to remain unfazed under pressure".

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JC Olivera - Getty Images

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The pilot for The Hurt Unit has been written by Matt Lopez and John Glenn, while Marc Webb (500 Days of Summer, The Amazing Spider-Man) directs.

Following his leading roles in The OC and Southland, McKenzie's last TV role was as Detective James Gordon in Gotham, which ended after five seasons in 2019.

Since then, the actor has welcomed his second child into the world with his wife – and Gotham co-star – Morena Baccarin.

The pair met on the set of Gotham and married in 2017 after welcoming their first child, Frances Laiz, in 2016.

The Hurt Unit will air on ABC in the US.

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