If you’re a die-hard Chicago Med fan, you might think you’ve caught every dramatic moment, medical emergency, and behind-the-scenes secret. But even the most dedicated viewers may have overlooked some fascinating details woven into the hit NBC medical drama. From hidden Easter eggs to surprising real-life inspirations, here are 10 things you may have missed while watching Chicago Med.
1. The Hidden Crossovers with Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D.
Did you know that Chicago Med is packed with subtle references to its sister shows? While the big crossover episodes are hard to miss, there are also smaller connections sprinkled throughout the series. Characters from Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. often appear in the background, and storylines frequently reference past events from the One Chicago universe.
2. Real Medical Consultants Help Shape the Show
To ensure medical accuracy, Chicago Med employs real doctors and nurses as consultants. These professionals help the writers craft realistic storylines and even train the actors in proper medical procedures. Next time you watch a surgery scene, take note of how the actors handle the equipment—it’s all been vetted by real medical experts.
3. Gaffney Chicago Medical Center Isn’t Real—But It’s Based on a Real Hospital
While Chicago Med is set at the fictional Gaffney Chicago Medical Center, its design and setting are inspired by real hospitals in Chicago. Many exterior shots were filmed at Rush University Medical Center, adding authenticity to the show’s cityscape.
4. Some Cast Members Have Real Medical Backgrounds
Though the actors aren’t licensed doctors, some of them have real-life experience in the medical field. For example, Nick Gehlfuss (Dr. Will Halstead) studied medical terminology extensively before taking on his role, and a few supporting cast members have backgrounds in healthcare.
5. The Show Features Real Medical Equipment
The hospital setting on Chicago Med isn’t just for show—many of the machines, monitors, and surgical tools used in scenes are real. However, they are often modified so that they don’t function exactly as they would in an actual medical setting.
6. Yaya DaCosta Left Chicago Med for a Surprising Reason
Yaya DaCosta, who played April Sexton, left the show after season six. While many assumed it was due to creative differences, she actually stepped away to star in another series, Our Kind of People. Fans were thrilled when she made a brief return in season eight.
7. Some Medical Cases Are Based on True Events
Not all the dramatic medical emergencies in Chicago Med are purely fictional. Many of the cases featured in the show are inspired by real-life medical situations. The writers often pull from news stories and real hospital cases to make the show feel more authentic.
8. Easter Eggs from Law & Order Appear in the Show
Since Chicago Med is produced by Dick Wolf, the mastermind behind Law & Order, you’ll occasionally spot references to the long-running legal drama. Whether it’s a familiar courtroom scene or a nod to a past Law & Order case, these Easter eggs make the One Chicago universe even richer.
9. A Major Actor Originally Auditioned for a Different Role
Brian Tee, who played Dr. Ethan Choi, originally auditioned for a completely different One Chicago show—Chicago Fire. Though he didn’t land that role, producers kept him in mind for Chicago Med, where he became a fan favorite.
10. The Show’s Timeline Is More Complicated Than You Think
Due to the interconnected nature of the One Chicago franchise, keeping track of the timeline in Chicago Med can be tricky. Since crossover episodes often affect storylines across multiple shows, some fans have noticed small inconsistencies in character development and plot progression.
Conclusion
Chicago Med is more than just a compelling medical drama—it’s a show filled with hidden details, real-life inspirations, and unexpected connections. Whether you’re rewatching past seasons or catching up on the latest episodes, keep an eye out for these fascinating tidbits. Who knows? You might just notice something you missed before!
FAQs
1. Is Gaffney Chicago Medical Center a real hospital?
No, it’s a fictional hospital, but the show’s exterior shots are filmed at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.
2. Are the medical cases in Chicago Med based on real events?
Yes, many of the cases are inspired by real-life medical scenarios, often taken from news reports or medical journals.
3. Why did Yaya DaCosta leave Chicago Med?
She left after season six to pursue another TV project but made a brief return in season eight.
4. How often do One Chicago crossovers happen?
There is usually at least one major crossover event per season, along with smaller character appearances throughout the year.
5. Do the actors on Chicago Med have medical training?
While they aren’t licensed doctors, many undergo medical training for their roles, and the show employs real medical consultants.
