Brendan Fraser’s Top Role in Iconic 2000s Series Rated 3.9/5!

Sometimes, a supporting role is all it takes to leave a lasting impression. Brendan Fraser is a prime example of this, capturing hearts 21 years before his Oscar win for Best Actor for his role in “The Whale.” This award marked the comeback of an underappreciated talent after years away from the Hollywood spotlight.

Between “The Mummy” sequels, he starred in a beloved series

Many fans first fell in love with Fraser through the comedy “George of the Jungle,” before he became an international superstar with the adventure series “The Mummy.” At the height of his fame, the American actor made a significant appearance in “Scrubs,” an iconic medical comedy from the 2000s. The show chronicles the lives of three young doctors at the outset of their careers in a teaching hospital.

Fraser appeared in a two-part episode at the end of the first season, where he played Ben, the beloved brother-in-law of Dr. Cox (John C. McGinley), the mentor to the series’ protagonist, JD (Zach Braff). Ben is the quintessential lovable character—kind, sensitive, and funny.

Two years later, another memorable episode

A simple household accident raises concerns for JD and Cox. After some reassuring tests, it seems like that’s the end of the story. However, JD imagines a happy ending to deny the real test results: Ben has leukemia.

Ben reappears in Season 3. The treatment appears successful, but shortly after arriving at Sacred Heart, he collapses. Angry at JD, whom he blames, Dr. Cox dismisses him and takes over his patients.

Throughout the episode, Cox’s brother-in-law is focused on treating all his patients so he can go to his son’s birthday party. His behavior causes confusion for JD, and Ben, who never leaves his side during the episode, also disapproves.

A finale that still haunts the series’ fans

It is only at the very end of the episode that Dr. Cox realizes he was actually headed to a cemetery: Ben did not survive his collapse, and his presence was just a figment of Cox’s imagination. This time the roles are reversed: it’s not JD but Cox who refused to accept reality and created a happier alternative in his mind.

In tears, JD’s mentor attends his brother-in-law’s farewell ceremony, who in reality was his only friend. On the coffin, a photo of Ben leaves a lasting image of him: smiling and benevolent.

For most fans, these three episodes featuring the American actor are among the best of the series. While “Scrubs” is categorized as a comedy, it has also proven effective in drama, as seen in the episodes featuring Ben.

The complete series of “Scrubs,” including the new unreleased season, is now available on Disney+.

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