John C. McGinley says Season 9 ‘was not written as Scrubs’

John C. McGinley, who plays Dr. Perry Cox, says Season 9 “was not written as ‘Scrubs.’” He described the season as a response to ABC’s request for more content during the recession in 2008–2009, produced quickly to provide work for many people and featuring a new ensemble of younger actors.

McGinley said creator Bill Lawrence’s limited involvement was keenly felt, and that was a major reason the cast viewed the season differently. He praised elements of Season 9 and the newer performers but added that he and others preferred projects where Lawrence was guiding the show.

With the revival now underway, the production appears to treat Season 8 as the original series’ endpoint. That means the Season 9 developments—such as J.D. and Elliot marrying or expecting a child—are not being carried forward; trailers and previews show J.D. and Elliot no longer together and J.D.

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