Taylor Dearden’s Dr. Mel Finds Peace in The Pitt’s Chaos

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As a movie reviewer, let me share my thoughts on this week’s episode of “The Pitt”. It seems that our protagonist, Dr. Melissa “Mel” King, has found her true calling as an emergency-room doctor. The aftermath of the mass shooting at PittFest brings an influx of injured patients to the ER, testing even the most seasoned professionals. Yet, in a setting where many would falter on their first day, Dr. Mel exhibits a poised and calculated approach, moving swiftly from one critically wounded patient to another with empathy and efficiency. Even after 12 grueling hours on duty, her composure remains unyielding, much like the neat braid atop her head. This episode underscores Dr. Mel’s innate ability to rise above adversity, making us all the more invested in her journey.

Actress Taylor Dearden partly credits her character’s tranquil focus to her own ADHD, a condition she shares with Dr. Mel in the TV series “Max medical drama.” Although the show doesn’t explicitly confirm that Mel is neurodivergent, Dearden suggests that the role was designed to hint at it. “I told the writers that ADHD and autism fall under the same spectrum now,” she explains. “All research on these conditions is combined.” Dearden believes this insight allowed her to bring a unique aspect of herself to the character. “I thought, I’ll show everything I usually hide,” says the actress. “I’ll let that shine instead.

Dearden, the daughter of actors Robin Dearden and Bryan Cranston who star in The Pitt, has won over fans with her genuine portrayal. This authenticity adds to the joy of witnessing Mel’s growth as she finishes her first shift (but not her last, as she will return for season two). “Even on this terribly sad day,” she says, “it feels like this is exactly what she was meant to do. When you finally get to perform the role you were destined for, whether neurotypical or neurodivergent, that sense of peace is invaluable.

In this week’s episode, one pivotal moment for Mel arises when Whitaker performs an IO on a conscious patient, which he should not. Mel intervenes to rectify the situation while maintaining composure, showing genuine leadership skills. Where do you suppose these traits originate? Well, in about episode five, I shared my idea with Noah Wyle that people with ADHD can develop an intense focus, also known as hyperfocus, allowing us to remain calm even in chaotic situations and concentrate on what’s right before us. We can recall information learned long ago that we thought was forgotten. This concept seemed fitting for the character, and Noah agreed. In fact, there’s a line in the show where Supriya Ganesh asks Patrick Ball and me, “Why do we do this, again?” To which Patrick replies, “Because we all have ADHD.” I think that sums it up quite nicely.

Although you’ve mentioned that you personally deal with ADHD, it hasn’t been explicitly confirmed that Mel has it on the show yet. The portrayal seems subtle and somewhat implied, but later, there appeared to be a retraction of sorts. I found myself saying, “I understand as someone with ADHD; let’s continue the conversation.” It was empowering to make that choice myself.

Why did they feel compelled to reconsider their stance?
There’s limited understanding about neurodiverse individuals, particularly those with ADHD, but I was explaining that current research shows ADHD and autism now fall under the same spectrum. The studies are conducted collectively, revealing minimal differences.

It’s often assumed that individuals who are neurodivergent struggle with emotional connections, but this doesn’t seem to be the case for Mel. In fact, it appears that she has found her perfect niche in caring for her patients, a role where her strong emotional attunement and excellent bedside manner truly shine. Even on difficult days like this one, she seems to find solace and fulfillment in doing what she was meant to do – practicing medicine. Whether neurotypical or neurodivergent, the satisfaction of living out your purpose is priceless.

A heartwarming instance from Mel’s character that truly resonated with viewers unfolded in episode 11, following the arrival of the newborn. The overwhelming happiness etched on your face as you cradle that baby is simply priceless and unique.

This spontaneous act was not initially planned; it was a decision made on set. Dr. Collins was supposed to be the only one handling the baby, but Tracy Ifeachor, who has experienced infant loss herself, suggested the idea of allowing Mel to do so. I recall her saying something along the lines of, “What if I give the baby to Mel?” I agreed, finding it a sensible and touching proposition. It turned out to be a lovely, intimate moment.

Isn’t it true that the baby was a robotic toy?

It had mechanical parts moving inside. Even though it looked sleek, holding it felt quite jolty due to the hidden battery. The placement of my hand was strategic to conceal the battery. It seemed like she had a strong grip on the robot’s rear end. Yes, because that’s where the battery was located! We also had puppeteers present, one of whom played Chucky in Child’s Play. Fiona Dourif, who has been involved with the franchise for quite some time, noticed this and asked if she saw her friend Peter, the puppeteer. And we replied, “Yes, he’s handling the Robot Baby and Female Lower Half.

In the course of this series, there’s been quite a bit about Mel and her sister. Prior to auditioning for the role, my character’s history didn’t involve Becca at all. However, during our preparations with Scott Gemmill and John Wells, they shared extensive details about our backgrounds, which was an incredibly actor-friendly experience. We were all thrilled about it because it doesn’t often happen. It was like, “Wow, this is rare!” That’s when I discovered the dynamics between Becca and Mel, learning that Mel had been a caretaker and that both her parents were deceased. This revelation helped me understand how isolated Mel must have felt, given her responsibilities as a primary caregiver and her pursuit of medical education without any family support. It seems to me that this sense of loneliness has driven Mel’s eagerness to make friends.

Why does Dr. Langdon seem particularly kind and supportive towards Mel at the hospital? I suspect it’s because Mel represents an opportunity for Langdon to fulfill her long-held aspiration to be a mentor, something she hasn’t had with anyone else. Since Mel is eager for a mentor, they find a connection as both their needs align.

I understand there’s been some discussion among fans about a possible romantic relationship between the characters you play. In a previous interview, you mentioned that your character, Mel, is asexual. Could you elaborate on this?
To be honest, I never considered a romantic angle with Mel. I believe she doesn’t have time for romance or has never had the inclination. When someone suggested it, I couldn’t help but laugh and text Patrick, “Why are they shipping us?” He replied, “I don’t know.” He made an interesting point, saying, “It’s fortunate that we can portray a strong friendship between a man and a woman without the need for sexualization.” I agreed with him. Having Mel in the story really helps soften Langdon’s character, making him more thoughtful and attentive. In turn, Mel gains confidence from Langdon’s approval because all she’s ever wanted is to be recognized for her efforts.

Dourif’s father, Brad, is the longtime voice of Chucky. She has appeared as Nica in Curse of Chucky, Cult of Chucky, and the recent Chucky TV series.

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2025-03-29 16:54