A USC Norman Lear Center study finds viewers are influenced by The Pitt‘s realistic portrayals of the medical profession, giving them a greater understanding of medical practice in real-life and moving them to take real-world action on certain health issues.
The survey of HBO Max viewers found nearly 90% of those who saw at least three episodes of The Pitt said the series reveals how systemic problems like understaffing affect patient outcomes and helps make provider stress relatable, all while remaining entertaining.
The survey’s results are being announced at the Norman Lear Awards tonight where series star and executive producer Noah Wyle and the creators behind the show will be accepting the Culture of Health award.
The study was commissioned through the Norman Lear Center’s Hollywood, Health & Society program, who are also behind the show’s accurate portrayal of the ER through their supported expert consultation on the series.
There are a couple of notable takeways from the survey, in organ donation and in end-of-life planning. According to the study, those who watched the organ donation storyline had more positive attitudes toward organ donation, greater intentions to register or discuss organ donation.
Additionally, those who watched a storyline about family members navigating end-of-life decisions for their ailing father were more likely than non-viewers to say they intended to make concrete plans, such as creating a living will or designating a power of attorney. Over a third (38.8%) sought more information about end-of-life planning and 15.3% shared relevant resources.
In interviews with doctors, nurses, and trainees, health care providers said The Pitt reflected the realities of their work—from overcrowding and underfunding to the “hidden toll” of burnout. Many said the authenticity of its characters and stories made them feel “seen” in ways television rarely does.
Following its premiere in January 2025, The Pitt became one of the most talked-about shows of the year.
Per the logline, The Pitt is a realistic examination of the challenges facing healthcare workers in today’s America as seen through the lens of the frontline heroes working in a modern-day hospital in Pittsburgh.
Each episode unfolds in real time over a single shift, with Wyle starring as Dr. Michael Rabinovitch (Dr. Robby). Created by R. Scott Gemmill, the series follows Dr. Robby’s (Wyle) 15-hour shift as the chief attendant in Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Hospital’s emergency room. Each episode is one hour in Robby’s frenetic day.
The Pitt is produced by John Wells Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, where JWP is under an overall deal. Gemmill created the drama and executive produces the series alongside Wells, Wyle, Michael Hissrich, JWP’s Erin Jontow and Simran Baidwan.
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