Martin Clunes stars in Best Medicine, a US remake of Doc Martin
Martin Clunes has made headlines with his role in the US remake of the beloved British series Doc Martin, titled Best Medicine, which premiered on March 6, 2026. Clunes reprises his iconic role, this time as Dr. Robert Best, the father of the main character, in a production that aims to capture the charm and humor of the original show.
Best Medicine airs on Fox in the United States, and early reactions have been positive. Viewers have expressed excitement about Clunes’ involvement, with actor Abigail Spencer tweeting, “How lucky are we? Tonight on #BestMedicineFOX with the OG!” This sentiment was echoed by Josh Charles, who remarked, “Having Martin Clunes is a great bridge for the lovers of the original show.” Clunes himself has shared his enthusiasm, stating, “It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Charles.”
The series, which originally debuted in 2004 and concluded with a special in 2022, follows a doctor who develops a blood phobia and relocates to a small town, where he faces challenges in connecting with the locals. The original series garnered a loyal fanbase, making the transition to a US version a significant undertaking.
In addition to his role in Best Medicine, Clunes is set to portray Huw Edwards in an upcoming Channel 5 drama titled Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards. This drama will delve into the scandal surrounding Edwards, who pleaded guilty to making indecent images of children in July 2024. The series aims to explore the complexities of power and trust, with producer Ben Frow stating, “This is an important and shocking story of how a man in a position of power and trust betrayed that status.”
Locations featured in Best Medicine include the Fleur de Lys pub, which inspired the fictional Drovers Arms pub in the show. The Fleur de Lys, dating back to the 1500s, holds a 4.2 rating on Tripadvisor, while the George Inn, a historic 14th-century Grade I listed Tudor inn located across the street, has received a rating of 948. These establishments add a layer of authenticity to the series, connecting it to the picturesque village of Norton St Philip in Wiltshire, UK.
As the series continues to air, viewers are keen to see how Clunes’ portrayal of Dr. Robert Best will resonate with audiences familiar with the original Doc Martin. The blend of nostalgia and new storytelling promises to engage both old fans and newcomers alike.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding future episodes and potential developments in the storyline, but the initial reception indicates that Clunes’ involvement is a significant draw for the series. Fans of the original Doc Martin are hopeful that Best Medicine will honor the legacy of its predecessor while carving out its own identity in the competitive landscape of television.