Doogie Howser, M.D.

About Doogie Howser, M.D.

Doogie Howser, M.D. is an American medical drama television series that aired for four seasons on ABC from September 19, 1989, to March 24, 1993, totaling 97 episodes. The show revolves around Douglas "Doogie" Howser, a teenage prodigy who became a licensed doctor at the age of 14 after graduating from Princeton University. Despite his medical prowess, Doogie grapples with the typical issues that come with adolescence.

Making / Production

The series was created by Steven Bochco and David E. Kelley. It was shot in Los Angeles, California under Steven Bochco Productions and 20th Century Fox Television. The show was known for seamlessly fusing the narratives of a medical drama with those of a coming-of-age sitcom.

Actors

• Neil Patrick Harris as Dr. Douglas "Doogie" Howser: Neil flawlessly portrays the dichotomy of a genius child dealing with the complexities of being a doctor amidst his teenage dilemmas.
• Max Casella as Vinnie Delpino: Max plays Doogie's best friend, contributing a dose of humor and offering perspectives on teen life outside the hospital.
• James B. Sikking as Dr. David Howser: James beautifully navigates the dual role of being Doogie's father and chief of staff at the hospital.
• Belinda Montgomery as Katherine Howser: As Doogie's mother, Belinda juggles the concern of a parent with the pride of a mother whose son is an extraordinary doctor.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series title is a play on the word "doggie," a term used in medical school when students practice surgical techniques on dogs.
• Star Neil Patrick Harris was actually 16 when he began playing 14 year old Doogie.
• The series was canceled due to low ratings despite its popularity among younger audiences.

Awards

During its run, Doogie Howser, M.D. received several award nominations, including four Young Artist Awards, with Neil Patrick Harris winning in 1990 for "Best Young Actor Starring in a Television Series".

Quotes

• "Every day is a winding road." - Doogie Howser
• "The only problem with getting your dream come true is you never get to sleep." - Vinnie Delpino
• "You’re not a doctor, you’re a boy who has the knowledge of a doctor." - Dr. David Howser

Music, Soundtrack

• The theme song, composed by Mike Post, has become iconic to fans of the series.
• Music for the series was composed by Post and Steven Bochco, adding depth and emotion to the narrative.