‘It’s An Unlikely Pairing’: Steven Weber Opens Up About Archer’s Strongest Relationships On Chicago Med, But One Answer I Didn’t Expect

'It's An Unlikely Pairing': Steven Weber Opens Up About Archer's Strongest Relationships On Chicago Med, But One Answer I Didn't Expect

As a long-time gamer of the rollercoaster that is Chicago Med, I must admit that the latest twist has left me hanging onto my seat with bated breath! The fall finale of 2024 was a nail-biting ride, and it seems Dean Archer’s resignation might be on hold for now.


In the autumn finale of Chicago Med that concluded the 2024 TV season, Dean Archer had planned to leave the hospital after being demoted from co-ED Chief at day’s end. However, an unexpected twist in the episode’s climax may have altered his decision! As we eagerly anticipate the return of One Chicago for the 2025 TV schedule, I revisited Weber’s comments on Archer’s most meaningful relationships. While his top choice didn’t take me by surprise, I must admit that one of the other selections gave me a bit of a jolt!

During an interview for NBC’s One Chicago junket, Steven Weber discussed how the show has become more hard-hitting under new showrunner Allen MacDonald, and shared some challenges related to fan feedback that can feel personal. Toward the end of Season 10’s fall run, Archer faced a professional setback due to Goodwin’s decision to reduce his role.

Before diving into the fall finale (now streaming on Peacock), I got curious about who Weber believes Archers’ strongest ally is. His first answer, one out of three, was charming and not entirely unexpected following their touching moment at the end of the latest episode. Here’s what he had to say:

Without a doubt, it’s Hannah I’m referring to. She’s been a constant presence throughout. Working alongside Jessy is something I truly enjoy, and I believe that Dean and Hannah have found solace in each other after enduring various personal setbacks and traumas. In an unexpected bond, they’ve formed a strong alliance, making her his most trusted confidant.

From the beginning, it seemed “unexpected” that Hannah and Dean’s friendship would develop, a fact confirmed by actress Jessy Schram in Season 8 who shared they weren’t anticipating it either! Showrunner Allen McDonald lauded their complex relationship, describing it as something difficult to define yet placing them on equal footing now. For years, Hannah and Archer have been my favorite pair from the show Med, and it was no surprise that Steven Weber chose her as his character’s most significant connection.

What struck me was the unexpected decision he made regarding the names of Archer’s allies, given his obvious irritation when Goodwin introduced Lenox as his co-ED Chief early in Season 10. Weber clarified the significance of S. Epatha Merkerson’s character to Archer.

It appears that he has gained a supportive partner in Ms. Goodwin, S. Epatha Merkerson, who appreciates his skills immensely yet guides him through challenging waters of healing – both physical and emotional. The journey involves not only the technical aspects of healing but also the delicate art of empathy and connection with patients. It’s crucial to remember that these people are not mere objects to mend; they require compassion, understanding, and a gentle touch. Thus, she serves as an invaluable ally on his path.

Prior to watching the tense finale cliffhanger of Chicago Med featuring Archer as Goodwin’s last hope, I had already conversed with Steven Weber. Despite his revelation that he filmed quite a bit ahead in Season 10, it’s the reason behind his choice of Goodwin that leaves me eager to see how he responds when she is stabbed, as the show resumes in the upcoming year.

Additionally, Weber was proposed as a potential ally for Archer in the series ‘Chicago Med’ as well. Although Goodwin’s promotion of him wasn’t as unexpected to me, this choice came as a surprise too. The actor himself mentioned:

Daniel Charles, or Ollie Platt, appears to be a reluctant associate of theirs, and they share a similar age. It seems their connection stems from the fact that they’ve both lived through many hardships, much of which has been marked by turmoil. This shared history might be what binds them together. However, Archer can come across as harsh and unapproachable at times, but he’s making progress in shedding that image, as he begins to reveal more about himself and open up emotionally.

From the preview for the winter premiere, it appears he will undoubtedly reveal his vulnerable side upon learning that Goodwin has been assaulted and in his desperate quest to rescue her. Although I must admit, it’s distressing that Sharon Goodwin of all individuals was injured – particularly after S. Epatha Merkerson delivered a remarkable performance during the fall finale – there may be a positive aspect: witnessing her condition might prompt him to remain. Here’s a sneak peek:

Don’t forget to catch NBC on Wednesday, January 8th at 8 PM Eastern Time for the season premiere of Chicago Med, followed by the comeback of Chicago Fire at 9 PM ET and Chicago P.D. at 10 PM ET. Of course, if you miss an episode, you can always rewatch it on Peacock, including the thrilling fall finale from earlier in the season.

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2024-11-28 06:37