The charming seaside town of Port Wenn is gearing up for more drama and heartfelt moments as FOX’s medical dramedy ‘Best Medicine’ returns for its second season. Set five months after the events of the first season finale, Season 2 finds the town basking in the glow of newfound wealth from a “uni explosion,” with residents generally happier and more prosperous. However, beneath the surface of this newfound prosperity, familiar characters navigate personal and professional challenges.
Dr. Martin Best, played by Josh Charles, continues to grapple with his hemophobia, a secret that put his medical license in jeopardy. While Elaine, his administrative assistant, has obtained a license to assist him, Martin remains on a probationary period with monitors observing his practice. A new character, Parker (Jack Cutmore-Scott), is introduced as a “charming and friendly” overseer whose presence adds a layer of professional scrutiny to Martin’s life.
Meanwhile, Martin’s complicated relationship with his ex, Eden (Eliza Coupe), is set to evolve. Charles described their dynamic as awkward and challenging in communication, yet acknowledged a shared sense of understanding and mutual respect. Despite this connection, Martin’s unresolved feelings for Louisa (Abigail Spencer) remain a central theme. Showrunner Liz Tuccillo stated that Louisa is “the love of his life,” and despite romantic detours, their bond is fundamental to the series.
Louisa’s personal journey in Season 2 will focus on her pursuit of happiness, including her considerations about motherhood through IVF and navigating the potential co-parenting offer from her ex, Sheriff Mark (Josh Segarra). With her school facing closure and IVF expenses, Louisa will also take on extra work, including shifts at The Salty Breeze. A new love triangle emerges for Louisa, involving Martin’s monitor, Parker, much to Martin’s chagrin.
Sheriff Mark is also set for a season of self-discovery, questioning his role in town and his own happiness outside of his relationship with Louisa. Executive producer Rodney Ferrell hinted that Mark will be “looking for love in all the wrong places” but may find resolution by the season’s end.
The series also highlights the growing success of The Salty Breeze, owned by Greg (Stephen Spinella) and George (Jason Veasey), who have been promoted to series regulars. Their interracial, intergenerational, gay marriage is a point of pride, and Season 2 will delve deeper into their relationship dynamics, exploring insecurities and potential familial interference. The restaurant’s popular Uni Tasting Menu is expected to continue its success, driving the town’s economy.
Other storylines include Elaine navigating her post-Juilliard rejection life and her relationship with Al (Carter Shimp). Aunt Sarah (Annie Potts) might explore new romantic possibilities, potentially with Andrea Martin’s character, Judith, a friend of Sarah’s with a penchant for smoking that creates safety hazards. Guest stars for Season 2 include Andrea Martin and Martin Clunes, reprising his role as Martin’s father, Dr. Robert Best, to explore Martin’s past.
The season promises a variety of quirky events, from a mermaid washing ashore to Revolutionary War reenactors and magicians. The Crate Race episode, which was a focus of the set visit, is expected to be a major event. With an expanded 14-episode order and a recent boost from being added to Netflix, hopes are high for Season 2, though an executive producer hinted at a disruptive storm by the season’s end.
‘Best Medicine’ Season 2 premieres Tuesday, September 22, at 8:00 p.m. ET on FOX.