What happened to the lives of those who brought County General Hospital to life on television? The cast of ER, a show that redefined medical dramas and became a cultural phenomenon, has seen their careers evolve in fascinating ways since the series finale. Over its 15-season run from 1994 to 2009, ER captivated audiences with its intense storytelling, dynamic characters, and groundbreaking performances. As we delve into where these iconic actors are today, it becomes clear how their time on the show shaped their futures.
Airing for more than a decade, ER not only set new standards for medical dramas but also launched some of Hollywood's biggest names. Among them is George Clooney, whose portrayal of Dr. Doug Ross made him a household name. His character’s charm and wit resonated deeply with viewers, propelling him toward superstardom. Meanwhile, Julianna Margulies gained widespread recognition as Nurse Carol Hathaway, earning critical acclaim for her nuanced performance. Both actors used their roles on ER as stepping stones to illustrious careers filled with diverse projects and accolades. Similarly, Anthony Edwards’ role as Dr. Mark Greene established him as one of television's most respected leading men during the late '90s and early 2000s.
| Name | Bio Data & Personal Information | Career | Professional Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| George Clooney | Born May 6, 1961, in Lexington, Kentucky. Married to Amal Clooney; two children. Attended Northern Kentucky University. | Actor, director, producer. Played Dr. Doug Ross in ER (1994–1999). | Academy Award winner for Best Supporting Actor (Syriana). Founded production company Smokehouse Pictures. Active humanitarian work. |
| Julianna Margulies | Born June 3, 1966, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Graduated from Juilliard School. | Actress. Portrayed Nurse Carol Hathaway in ER (1994–1999). | Emmy Award winner for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (The Good Wife). Continued success in TV and film. |
| Anthony Edwards | Born August 27, 1962, in Santa Monica, California. Studied at Harvard University. | Actor. Starred as Dr. Mark Greene in ER (1994–2002). | Nominated for multiple Emmy Awards. Transitioned into directing after ER. |
| Maura Tierney | Born September 28, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois. Trained at Second City Theatre. | Actress. Featured as Abby Lockhart in ER (2002–2009). | Primetime Emmy Award winner for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series (The Affair). Consistent presence in television. |
IMDb: Full Cast & Crew Details
Noah Wyle, another central figure in the series, played Dr. John Carter, a character whose journey mirrored his own rise to prominence. After leaving ER, Wyle starred in The Librarians, further cementing his status as a versatile actor capable of handling both dramatic and comedic roles. Sherry Stringfield, who returned intermittently throughout the series as Dr. Susan Lewis, pursued various acting opportunities while balancing family life. Her dedication to her craft remained evident even amidst personal commitments.
Eriq La Salle, known for his commanding presence as Dr. Peter Benton, transitioned smoothly into other high-profile roles following his departure from ER. He continued to appear in films and television shows, showcasing his ability to tackle complex characters beyond the confines of County General Hospital. Meanwhile, Mekhi Phifer, introduced later in the series as Dr. Greg Pratt, carved out a successful career in both mainstream cinema and independent films.
Laura Innes, who joined the cast as Dr. Kerry Weaver, brought an air of authority and intelligence to the screen that resonated with fans worldwide. Post-ER, she ventured into producing and directing, expanding her influence within the entertainment industry. Alex Kingston, famous for her role as Dr. Elizabeth Corday, maintained an active presence in both British and American productions, proving her adaptability across different markets.
The impact of ER extends far beyond its original run. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers, directors, and actors. For instance, Maura Tierney, who joined the series midway through its tenure, went on to earn critical praise for her work in The Affair, demonstrating the lasting power of the skills honed during her time on the show. Similarly, Linda Cardellini, who appeared briefly but memorably as Nurse Samantha Taggart, leveraged her experience into a thriving career marked by critically acclaimed performances.
Even supporting players such as Paul McCrane (Dr. Robert Romano) and Goran Višnjić (Dr. Luka Kovac) found significant success post-ER. McCrane took on numerous guest starring roles, while Višnjić balanced acting with pursuits outside the entertainment world. Their contributions to the series underscored the depth and breadth of talent assembled under the ER banner.
As the years have passed, many members of the ER cast have reunited for special events or participated in interviews reflecting on their experiences. These moments offer fans a glimpse into how much the show meant to those involved—not just professionally but personally. The camaraderie formed behind the scenes translated directly onto the screen, creating bonds that endure to this day.
In addition to individual achievements, several former ER cast members have collaborated on new projects, maintaining connections forged during their time together. Such collaborations serve as testament to the enduring influence of the series and the friendships developed along the way. Whether through shared ventures or mutual support, they continue to celebrate the legacy of ER collectively.
For those who grew up watching ER, learning about what the cast is doing now provides a satisfying conclusion to stories begun decades ago. It highlights the versatility and resilience of individuals who rose to prominence amid challenging circumstances. Each actor followed unique paths yet retained elements of the passion and commitment first displayed at County General Hospital.
Ultimately, ER remains more than just a television show—it represents a pivotal chapter in modern media history. Through its innovative approach to storytelling and unforgettable characters, it left an indelible mark on popular culture. And though the lights may have dimmed at County General Hospital long ago, the lives touched by its existence continue to shine brightly across the globe.
