What happened to the talented ensemble cast of 'ER' after the show ended? The iconic series, which premiered in 1994 and ran for 15 seasons, became a cultural phenomenon that set the tone for all medical dramas that followed. Today, as we celebrate its 30th anniversary, it's fascinating to explore where these beloved actors are now. Bold moves and career shifts have marked their journeys since they left County General.
The original County General crew included George Clooney, Julianna Margulies, Noah Wyle, Anthony Edwards, Eriq La Salle, and Sherry Stringfield, among others. Each member carved out a distinct path post-ER, some becoming A-list celebrities while others ventured into directing or producing. For instance, George Clooney transitioned from playing Dr. Doug Ross to becoming one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men, starring in critically acclaimed films such as Ocean's Eleven and Gravity. Meanwhile, Julianna Margulies found success with her role as Alicia Florrick in The Good Wife, earning multiple awards for her performance.
| Name | Role on ER | Years Active | Notable Post-ER Work | Awards | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| George Clooney | Dr. Doug Ross | 1994–1999 | Films like Ocean's Eleven, Syriana, Up in the Air | Two Academy Awards, Golden Globes | IMDb Profile |
| Julianna Margulies | Carol Hathaway | 1994–2000 | The Good Wife, The Hot Zone | Emmy Award, Golden Globe | IMDb Profile |
| Noah Wyle | John Carter | 1994–2002 | Falling Skies, The Librarians | SAG Award nomination | IMDb Profile |
| Anthony Edwards | Mark Greene | 1994–2002 | Third Watch, The Crossing | Golden Globe nomination | IMDb Profile |
| Eriq La Salle | Peter Benton | 1994–2002 | City of Angels, directing work | NAACP Image Award | IMDb Profile |
| Sherry Stringfield | Susan Lewis | 1994–1999; 2001–2002 | JAG, The L Word: Generation Q | Golden Globe nomination | IMDb Profile |
Noah Wyle, who played Dr. John Carter, went on to star in successful television series such as Falling Skies and The Librarians. His versatility allowed him to take on roles beyond the medical genre, proving his range as an actor. Similarly, Anthony Edwards, known for portraying Dr. Mark Greene, continued acting but also pursued opportunities in production and behind-the-scenes work. He starred in shows like Third Watch and even ventured into reality TV with The Crossing.
Eriq La Salle, famous for his portrayal of Dr. Peter Benton, expanded his horizons by transitioning into directing. Following his departure from 'ER,' he appeared in several television series and directed episodes for various shows. His contributions extended beyond acting, showcasing his skills in both performance and direction. Meanwhile, Sherry Stringfield, who portrayed Susan Lewis, returned briefly for the final season before focusing on other projects. She later gained recognition through her role in JAG and has continued working steadily in the entertainment industry.
Beyond individual achievements, the legacy of 'ER' resonates deeply within the realm of television history. As one of the first primetime medical dramas to tackle complex issues like ethics, trauma care, and hospital politics, it paved the way for future hits like Grey's Anatomy and House. Its innovative storytelling techniques and commitment to realism earned it numerous accolades during its run, including 22 Primetime Emmy Awards.
In recent years, fans have revisited the classic series through streaming platforms, reigniting interest in its groundbreaking narrative style. While many members of the original cast have achieved significant milestones in their careers, they remain connected to the show that launched them into stardom. Interviews and retrospectives often highlight fond memories of filming at Chicago’s St. Augustine Hospital, which served as the fictional County General.
As 'ER' celebrates three decades since its debut, it continues to inspire new generations of viewers. The impact of this seminal series extends far beyond its initial airdate, influencing not only the world of television but also real-world perceptions of emergency medicine. With each passing year, the question remains: Where will these accomplished individuals go next? Their journeys serve as testaments to the enduring power of creativity and resilience in the entertainment industry.
