For a long-running procedural drama like Chicago Med, it's no surprise that casting changes are common and to be expected at a certain point. The medical drama currently only has two remaining cast members who have been with the series from the very beginning, but throughout the seasons, the show has also gathered amazing new stars and characters we absolutely adore.
However, one of these new characters that we love (or love to hate, depending on how you feel about him) seemingly almost didn't make it past the season in which he was introduced. He's a very headstrong and opinionated character. Although he can be soft and caring, he's also one who can challenge those around him. Can you guess who we're talking about? It's Dr. Dean Archer!
Steven Weber reveals Dean Archer was almost killed off Chicago Med
Chicago Med star Steven Weber dropped by the One Chicago Podcast on the episode released on Oct. 30 to chat all things Dr. Archer, the medical drama, and behind-the-scenes secrets. Weber sure delivered the behind-the scenes secret that made us stop in our tracks when he revealed that Archer was nearly killed off the series after only a few episodes into his introductory arc.
Weber recounted how Archer's story almost played out back in season 6: "The character was a guy who was a naval surgeon, who had been to Afghanistan, had been wounded, had PTSD, and, in fact, at the end of this arc, was going to do some self-harm. He was not good up here. He was suffering and had untreated trauma, and at the end of this guy’s story, he was not gonna make it."
The actor explained that Archer's entrance into Chicago Med in season 6 was conceived to be "dark." His lasting experiences with PTSD were causing him problems in the field and his behavior was, as Weber describes it, that of a "sociopath." But as we know now, since Weber's still on the show as Dr. Archer, the creative team opted to keep the doctor around. He became a series regular in season 7.
During his appearance on the One Chicago Podcast, Weber continued to explain that the writers changed course with Archer about "halfway through" the original arc that had been planned. Archer still had some struggles to overcome, but rather than being a tragic guest character that came in and out after a few episodes, they decided to further explore how he fits into the Gaffney world.
"I think they decided that this character had more depth and appeal and possibilities beyond where they were gonna take him. And so after that, they decided not to end the character, and they brought me back the next season," Weber said on the podcast.
Personally, I believe the creative team made the right decision to keep Archer and making him a permanent fixture on Chicago Med. He might be a character that can drive you made, whether with his decisions or just how he acts, but he makes you feel something. You could never call Archer a boring character. Between his backstory and his demeanor, he's a dynamic character to watch.
Not to mention, Weber brings so much to the show. He's a television icon, having starred in the hit '90s sitcom Wings and guest starred in a huge list of popular shows throughout the years. His talent is sharp and raises the bar for the show's acting. The whole cast, especially right now in season 11, brings it in each episode, and Weber's definitely at the center of the show's energy.
Watch Steven Weber's full conversation on the One Chicago Podcast in the video below!