‘Brilliant’ Doc Martin spin-off series fans are ‘obsessed’ with now streaming
Lifestyle
Shivon Watson
12:21, 12 Jul 2026
The American reimagining of a beloved ITV comedy-drama has finally arrived in the UK following its US premiere earlier this year
The programme, a spin-off from Doc Martin, features The Good Wife star Josh Charles as Martin Best, an accomplished surgeon who abandons his thriving Boston career in pursuit of a more tranquil existence in a charming coastal community
However, adjusting to his new surroundings proves anything but simple, as Martin grapples with a severe phobia of blood while dealing with the town’s vibrant and unconventional inhabitants. Having achieved remarkable success stateside, drawing approximately 15 million regular viewers by its concluding episode, the programme has at last reached British audiences
This heartwarming medical dramedy delivers warmth, comedy and small-town appeal, positioning it as perfect fare for those seeking light, feel-good viewing
Devotees of the original ITV programme have an additional bonus, with Martin Clunes appearing in a special cameo role, having famously portrayed the brusque yet endearing physician
The reimagining tracks Dr Martin Best as he abandons urban living for a more peaceful future in the idyllic fishing village of Port Wenn, Maine, reports the Express
Yet while anticipating a tranquil fresh start, he rapidly becomes entangled in the lives of the town’s distinctive characters, whose constant peculiarities guarantee anything but serenity. Enthusiastically received by audiences as “fantastic” and “delightful”, the programme has already captured hearts across the Atlantic
On IMDb, one viewer wrote: “I cannot express how much I love this show. Please don’t let anyone, or anyone behind the scenes, quit working on the show. Everything’s perfect the way it is. From the actors chosen, the writers, the set design, the props. Everybody who participated in the show needs a HUGE raise. I hope it’s on TV for 20 years. I love this show!”
Another enthusiastic reviewer declared, “Brilliant Show – Awesome Cast,” while a third commented, “What a fun show! While I am a solid fan of the British Doc Martin, I actually like this version so much better.”
A further viewer added: “Charming and Heartwarming, My Latest Obsession. I have not seen the original Doc Martin, but Best Medicine has really captured my heart. I even watch it live every week which I haven’t done for a show in probably a decade.”
The show’s synopsis states: “Soon he’s introduced to Port Wenn’s community, filled with quirky but loving characters with no end of ailments for him to figure out and diagnose. However, as someone who is quite introverted and likes to keep himself to himself, he struggles with the adjustment
“He’s also got a huge blood phobia, which doesn’t help his abilities as a doctor who may need to tend to wounds from time to time
“But behind his brusque attitude and no-nonsense approach to a bedside manner, Dr Martin hides his own personal pain that he is hiding from the world which explains why he is the way he is. Will this little town bring him out of his shell?”
Leading the ensemble is Charles, known for his work in The Good Wife and The Handmaid’s Tale, alongside Abigail Spencer (Grey’s Anatomy) portraying Louisa Gavin, Josh Segarra (Abbott Elementary) as Mark Mylow, Cree (Big Sky) as Elaine Denton, and Annie Potts (Pretty in Pink) as Aunt Sarah
The supporting ensemble also includes Stephen Spinella (American Classic) as Greg Garrison, Jason Veasey (Only Murders in the Building) as George Brady, Carter Shimp (The Holdovers) as Al Large, Alexandra Cica (I Still Hate You) as Harley, John DiMaggio (Perry Mason) as Bert Large, Clea Lewis (American Rust) as Sally Mylow, and Didi Conn (Harlan Coben’s Shelter) as Geneva Potter
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As a special bonus for devotees of the original programme, Martin Clunes appears in the ninth episode as Robert Best, the on-screen father of Charles’ character
Best Medicine can be streamed on Sky One and NOW
