Before the Scrubs revival ever made headlines, fans were already getting their fix through a different kind of reunion. Zach Braff and Donald Faison spent years reliving the beloved sitcom on their rewatch podcast, Fake Doctors, Real Friends, which turned their on-screen bromance into a real-world listening experience. Now, with the revival's second season on the horizon, the duo has confirmed that the podcast is making a comeback — and it's getting a serious upgrade.
In an exclusive chat with Collider, Braff and Faison revealed that Fake Doctors, Real Friends is currently in "final negotiations" to move into a proper studio setting, a far cry from its humble beginnings. The new episodes will focus on the revival's first two seasons, giving the podcast a fresh angle as it explores the show's new generation alongside the familiar faces fans adore.
From Closet to Studio: The Podcast's Evolution
When Fake Doctors, Real Friends first launched in March 2020, it was a product of lockdown. Faison famously recorded early episodes from his closet, and the raw, DIY feel became part of its charm. But as the podcast grew, so did its ambitions. Now, it's set to follow in the footsteps of Dax Shepard's Armchair Expert, with a cozy, professional setup that reflects how far the show has come.
"I've grown up since then, thank you very much!" Faison joked when asked if fans should expect the same lockdown-era vibe. Braff chimed in with excitement: "This is a Collider exclusive! We're in final negotiations to do it in a proper set, like Dax's show. You know, in a cute little cozy room."
Why the Podcast Struck a Chord
The success of Fake Doctors, Real Friends wasn't just about nostalgia. It offered a genuine look at the friendship between Braff and Faison, which mirrored their characters J.D. and Turk in the best way. Listeners were treated to behind-the-scenes stories and appearances from original cast members like Sarah Chalke, Judy Reyes, John C. McGinley, and creator Bill Lawrence, proving that the on-screen chemistry was real.
The timing also played a huge role. Launching during the pandemic, the podcast became a comforting presence for fans stuck at home, offering familiar voices and a sense of connection. The hospital setting of Scrubs even felt oddly relevant during a global health crisis, adding an unexpected layer of resonance.
What's Next for the Podcast
With the revival's second season underway, the podcast will have plenty of new material to dissect. The show introduced a fresh batch of characters, including Ava Bunn's Doctor Sam Tosh, who joins the original trio as a series regular. This gives Braff and Faison a chance to explore what it's like to join a beloved series from a newcomer's perspective, a topic the original cast often touched on during the pandemic-era episodes.
The studio format also opens up new possibilities for guest appearances and deeper conversations. As the podcast continues to evolve, it's clear that Fake Doctors, Real Friends is more than just a rewatch — it's a celebration of a show that has meant so much to so many. And with the revival bringing Scrubs back into the spotlight, this podcast is poised to be the perfect companion piece.
For fans eager to dive back into the world of Sacred Heart, the return of Fake Doctors, Real Friends is just one more reason to be excited. And if you're looking to revisit the show's best moments, check out our essential episodes guide to get ready for the new season.
