Why Joshua Jackson Is ‘Waging a One-Man War’ for a Broadway Episode of ‘Doctor Odyssey’

As a longtime fan of Joshua Jackson and his impressive career, I can’t help but be thrilled by his unwavering passion for his latest project, “Doctor Odyssey.” It’s not every day that we see an actor with such a rich background in television and film fighting tirelessly to bring a unique Broadway-themed episode to life.

Joshua Jackson is “fighting single-handedly” to get approval for a Broadway-inspired episode for his successful ABC show, “Doctor Odyssey.

Jackson, who takes on both executive production and acting as Dr. Max Bankman, doesn’t necessarily leap at the chance to sing or dance – he admits that composing small songs has aided him in grasping the show’s intricate medical terminology, but it’s not something he’s particularly enthusiastic about. Similarly, Jackson isn’t thrilled about dancing either; he and his co-star Sean Teale (portraying nurse Tristan Silva) chuckle self-consciously when the discussion at a special FYC screening in Los Angeles veers towards their dance routine (accompanied by “Despacito”) in the pilot episode.

After that incident, Jackson chuckled as he shared, “We didn’t dance much afterwards.” He added, “I believe they watched my daily footage of me dancing and decided, ‘He’s done enough with that.’

It seems Jackson is quite enthusiastic about a Broadway episode, and here’s why: He believes that since they have an experienced performer from the Great White Way like Philippa Soo (who plays nurse practitioner Avery Morgan), it would be a waste not to highlight her talents.

“It is insane to have Phillipa Soo on a television show, on any television show — if it was ‘The Sopranos,’ I don’t care, but on our show, where you can really do whatever you want every week — and have her not have sung a song or danced a dance,” Jackson continued. “I don’t understand what we’re doing!”

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the first eight episodes of the Ryan Murphy-created series have been nothing short of extraordinary. From Singles Week to Plastic Surgery Week, Wellness Week, Halloween Week, a sea wedding, Gay Pride Week, and even “Quackers Week,” the variety has been captivating. Therefore, a Broadway episode wouldn’t seem like a leap at all!

Because Soo wasn’t around to explain herself during the panel discussion, Jackson jokingly implied that she was the one who insisted they create a Broadway episode, and he’s just going along with her idea. This is all in good fun – it’s an illustration of the amicable rapport the “Doctor Odyssey” team has developed while filming their series about working on a luxurious cruise ship.

Don Johnson, who portrays Captain Robert Massey on ‘The Odyssey,’ remarked that [Philippa] is the easiest to get along with and likely possesses more talent in her index finger than everyone else in the cast. He added that she excels at physical comedy and can handle a wide range of acting tasks.

Jackson chimed in, with faux indignation: “We’ve made her do everything except sing and dance!”

As a devoted movie fan, I’d say that Jackson and Johnson, serving as executive producers, are like two skilled sailors navigating our beloved series. Each of them, with their extensive backgrounds spanning over several decades in TV production, steer us confidently through the vast sea of entertainment.

Teale praised the pair for being exceptional problem solvers who collaborate exceptionally well. They’re incredibly generous individuals, yet they possess an acute awareness of their surroundings. Don is extraordinarily generous not only with his skills but also with his captivating stories. Working with Josh and Don has been everything one could hope for, given their reputation and stature, and it’s been a true blessing that they are as refined, as sophisticated, and as composed as they seem.

Johnston’s fame in the TV world, thanks to shows like “Miami Vice” and “Nash Bridges,” is already well-established (just as Jackson’s reputation stems from “Dawson’s Creek,” “Fringe,” “Fatal Attraction,” among others). Johnston himself admits that the thrilling, rapid pace of producing episodes is what keeps him firmly rooted in the small screen.

Television holds a special place in my heart. I appreciate its instant accessibility, as well as the challenge it presents. It’s this unique combination that allows us to create something extraordinary, as evidenced by our whole team here – me, Jackson, and Teale. I feel incredibly fortunate to be employed in such a role, working alongside these exceptionally talented individuals and guest stars.

A succession of well-known personalities such as Shania Twain, Gina Gershon, John Stamos, Kelsea Ballerini, Margo Martindale, Cheyenne Jackson, Margaret Cho, and Loretta Devine have passed through the doors, with even more prominent figures expected to follow suit.

Jackson mentioned that our work environment on set fosters a feeling of playfulness, which contributes to the show’s overall cheerful vibe. It’s been fantastic to continually welcome fresh faces each week. Every new individual brings in their unique charm to perform their scenes, keeping things exciting and novel for us.

By chance, the FYC panel occurred on the day following Johnson’s 75th birthday. As a result, Jackson and Teale prompted the audience to clap, and when Johnson stood up, they applauded him as he savored the occasion.

As I collaborate with you day in and day out, what truly resonates with me is your profound dedication and passion, which you pour into our work with an undeniable love,” I shared with you, Johnston, highlighting the heartfelt fervor that radiates from you on set every single day.

Jackson pointed out that a performance isn’t only about the beginning and end; it extends beyond that. He’s always aware of the 75 to 80 individuals on set with him. He pays close attention to details, approaching his work from a place of love, respect, joy, and concern for creating an enjoyable and positive work environment for everyone involved. Jackson finds this level of consideration incredibly admirable.

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2024-12-18 03:47