Netflix is about to drop a medical drama that promises to redefine the genre with a jolt of high-stakes tension and interpersonal fireworks. We're talking about Pulse, the upcoming series set to premiere on April 3, bringing with it a potent blend of life-and-death medicine, simmering office politics, and romantic entanglements. If you're eager to dive into the heart of the action, understanding the Pulse 2025 Cast, Characters & Creator Info is your first step. Consider this your definitive guide to the people—both in front of and behind the camera—who are bringing this intense new show to life.
Imagine Grey's Anatomy in its early, most "sexy, romantic, and dramatic" days, but amplified by an apocalyptic natural disaster. That's Pulse, and it's already creating significant buzz.
At a Glance: What You Need to Know About Pulse
- Title: Pulse
- Platform: Netflix
- Premiere Date: April 3
- Genre: Medical Drama
- Core Premise: A Miami trauma center (Maguire Medical Center) is overwhelmed by a devastating natural disaster (Hurricane Abby), forcing its staff into impossible situations while navigating complex personal and professional lives.
- Showrunners/Creators: Zoe Robyn and Carlton Cuse
- Key Dynamics: Unexpected promotions, exposed secret relationships, intense medical emergencies, and a central romance under extreme pressure.
- Episodes: Over 10 episodes
- Comparison: Drawing parallels to the beloved early seasons of Grey's Anatomy.
Behind the Scalpel: The Visionaries Crafting Pulse
At the helm of any compelling series are the creative minds shaping its world, and Pulse is no exception. This new medical drama benefits from the expertise of two seasoned showrunners who know how to build captivating narratives that keep audiences glued to their screens.
Zoe Robyn and Carlton Cuse serve as the creators and showrunners for Pulse. Their collaboration suggests a blend of fresh storytelling and proven dramatic craftsmanship. Carlton Cuse, in particular, brings a formidable resume to the table. He's a name synonymous with some of television's most iconic and intricate series, having co-created and executive produced the groundbreaking mystery drama Lost, which famously redefined serialized storytelling. Cuse also helmed the psychological thriller Bates Motel and contributed to other notable projects like Jack Ryan. His involvement alone signals a show committed to deep character development, high stakes, and potentially labyrinthine plot twists. With Robyn and Cuse guiding the narrative, viewers can anticipate a series that not only delivers medical intensity but also explores the human condition with nuance and gravitas, much like Cuse's previous acclaimed works.
The Epicenter of Emergency: Maguire Medical Center and Hurricane Abby
The stage for Pulse's high-octane drama is the Maguire Medical Center, a trauma center in vibrant Miami. But this isn't just any hospital setting. The series plunges right into crisis mode as a devastating natural disaster, identified as Hurricane Abby, slams into the city, leaving chaos and an unprecedented influx of trauma cases in its wake. This relentless external pressure forms the bedrock of the show, pushing the medical staff to their absolute limits and forcing difficult decisions in an already demanding profession. The natural disaster isn't just a backdrop; it's an active character, influencing every storyline, every relationship, and every life-or-death moment within the hospital's walls. This high-stakes environment serves as a potent catalyst, stripping away pretenses and exposing the true nature of the characters.
The Heartbeat of the Hospital: Meet the Cast and Characters of Pulse
At its core, a medical drama thrives on the compelling characters who navigate the impossible. Pulse introduces us to a diverse ensemble of doctors, nurses, and medical students, each with their own professional ambitions, personal demons, and intertwined histories. Here’s a closer look at the Pulse 2025 cast and the characters they portray:
Dr. Danielle "Danny" Simms (Played by Willa Fitzgerald)
At the very heart of Pulse is Dr. Danielle "Danny" Simms, a third-year emergency medicine resident at Maguire Medical Center. Danny is thrust into an unenviable position: unexpectedly promoted to Chief Resident just as Hurricane Abby hits, following the suspension of her ex-partner. She’s described as resilient, driven, and possessing a remarkable ability to compartmentalize—qualities that will be severely tested as she’s forced to lead under extreme duress, working alongside her former lover amidst an unrelenting flood of trauma cases. Her journey will likely explore themes of leadership, self-doubt, and the struggle to maintain professional boundaries when personal feelings are on the line.
Willa Fitzgerald, who takes on the challenging role of Danny, is no stranger to intense television. She’s widely recognized for her starring role as Emma Duval in Scream: The TV Series, where she navigated horror and mystery with compelling vulnerability. More recently, Fitzgerald showcased her dramatic range in Mike Flanagan's critically acclaimed Netflix series, The Fall of the House of Usher. Her experience with high-tension narratives and complex character portrayals makes her an ideal choice to anchor Pulse.
Dr. Xander Phillips (Played by Colin Woodell)
Adding significant romantic and professional tension to the series is Dr. Xander Phillips. He’s the charismatic former Chief Resident of medical emergency and, crucially, Danielle’s ex-partner. Xander finds himself in hot water, facing suspension, and his secret relationship with Simms has been exposed, adding another layer of scandal to the hospital's internal dynamics. Despite his professional woes, he is called back to the hospital to assist when Hurricane Abby bears down on Miami, forcing him to work alongside Danielle. This return brings with it not only professional obligation but also a battle with his own unresolved feelings for her, creating a powerful emotional current beneath the medical emergencies.
Colin Woodell, who embodies Xander, has a strong presence in recent television history. He’s known for his role in the Peacock prequel series The Continental, where he portrayed a younger Winston Scott, demonstrating a blend of charm and cunning. Prior to that, Woodell was a familiar face in HBO Max's hit mystery-comedy The Flight Attendant. His ability to play complex, attractive characters with hidden depths suggests that Xander Phillips will be far more than a simple romantic foil, likely a character grappling with ego, regret, and a desire for redemption.
Dr. Natalie Cruz (Played by Justina Machado)
The formidable Dr. Natalie Cruz is the Chair of Surgery and Emergency Medicine at Maguire. It is Dr. Cruz who makes the pivotal decision to appoint Danielle as Chief Resident after Phillips’s suspension, indicating a trust in Danny's abilities despite the circumstances. Cruz is depicted as both emotionally and intellectually intelligent, a critical mentor to her residents, and a skilled navigator of the complicated fallout from Phillips and Simms’s exposed relationship. She is instrumental in supporting Danielle's career focus amidst the citywide crisis, embodying the strength and wisdom required at the highest levels of hospital leadership. Her character will be key to understanding the institutional pressures and ethical dilemmas within the medical center.
Justina Machado, a highly acclaimed actress, steps into the role of Dr. Cruz. Machado is celebrated for her powerful and nuanced performances, notably as Penelope Alvarez in the beloved Netflix series One Day at a Time, which earned her widespread critical praise. She also brought a memorable performance to Jane the Virgin. Machado’s talent for combining warmth, humor, and a deep emotional core ensures that Dr. Cruz will be a multidimensional leader, guiding her team through unimaginable challenges.
Sam Elijah (Played by Jessie T. Usher)
Every medical drama needs that steady, reliable presence, and for Danny, that seems to be Sam Elijah. A third-year emergency medicine resident and Danny’s close friend within the hospital, Sam is known for his calm demeanor even in the most intense situations. This ability to stay cool under pressure will undoubtedly be invaluable during Hurricane Abby's onslaught. His friendship with Danny will likely provide a crucial anchor for her as she navigates her new responsibilities and personal turmoil.
Jessie T. Usher brings Sam to life. Usher is perhaps most recognized for his electrifying portrayal of A-Train, the super-speedster with a morally complex character arc, in Amazon Prime Video's hugely popular series The Boys. His experience playing a character who projects confidence while battling internal conflicts could hint at hidden depths for Sam, suggesting he might be more than just a calm presence.
Tom Cole (Played by Jack Bannon)
Introducing an element of international intrigue and professional investigation is Tom Cole, a second-year resident at Maguire Medical Center. Described intriguingly as a "British bad boy," Tom isn't just focused on medicine. He takes it upon himself to investigate the truth behind Dr. Xander Phillips' suspension, hinting at a potential subplot involving hospital politics and hidden agendas. Further complicating his life, Tom is romantically involved with two different colleagues: Cass Himmelstein and Nia Washington. This suggests a character who thrives on chaos, both professional and personal.
Jack Bannon is best known for his titular role as the young Alfred Pennyworth in the Epix (now MGM+) series Pennyworth, a prequel to the Batman saga. In Pennyworth, Bannon expertly balanced charm, wit, and a fierce loyalty, often in high-stakes action sequences. This background certainly prepares him to portray a character like Tom Cole, who juggles multiple relationships and an investigative drive amidst medical emergencies.
Cass Himmelstein (Played by Jessica Rothe)
Representing the crucial nursing staff is Cass Himmelstein, a senior nurse in the E.R. Cass is a character who strives to keep her professional life strictly separate from her personal affairs, a common challenge in high-stress environments like a trauma center. However, her professional boundaries appear to blur as she becomes romantically involved with Tom Cole. Her struggle to maintain this separation while dealing with the demands of her job and a burgeoning relationship will offer a grounded perspective on the chaos within the hospital.
Jessica Rothe, who plays Cass, is widely celebrated for her starring role as Tree Gelbman in the horror-comedy Happy Death Day and its sequel. In these films, Rothe showcased a remarkable ability to blend humor, vulnerability, and resilience while facing repetitive, life-threatening situations. Her knack for portraying characters who evolve under pressure makes her a great fit for Cass, a professional trying to hold it together in an increasingly complicated environment.
Dr. Ruben Soriano (Played by Néstor Carbonell)
Adding a layer of professional friction and traditionalist perspective is Dr. Ruben Soriano, a senior surgeon at Maguire. Dr. Soriano openly disagrees with Dr. Cruz’s decision to appoint Simms as Chief Resident, preferring to avoid any drama that extends beyond his operating room. His character represents the established order and potentially the old guard's resistance to change or unconventional appointments. His presence guarantees clashes, especially with Dr. Cruz and potentially Danny, as she attempts to assert her authority.
Néstor Carbonell is a familiar face to fans of Carlton Cuse’s past work, having previously collaborated with the showrunner on both Lost (as Richard Alpert) and Bates Motel (as Sheriff Alex Romero), where he played characters with mysterious pasts and strong moral codes. Carbonell also recently appeared in the critically acclaimed series Shōgun. His experience in complex dramas with deep character work makes him an excellent choice for a surgeon who values order and precision above all else.
Camila Perez (Played by Daniela Nieves)
Offering a fresh perspective and representing the future of medicine is Camila Perez, a third-year medical student mentored by Dr. Natalie Cruz. Her first day at the trauma center shockingly coincides with the arrival of Hurricane Abby. Thrown into the deep end, Camila's journey will undoubtedly be a baptism by fire, forcing her to confront the brutal realities of emergency medicine under unimaginable circumstances. Her mentorship under Dr. Cruz highlights the vital role experienced professionals play in shaping new generations of doctors.
Daniela Nieves brings Camila to the screen. Nieves is known for her roles in shows like Every Witch Way and Vampire Academy, often portraying characters navigating magical or extraordinary circumstances. This background could give her an interesting take on a medical student plunged into the very real, terrifying magic of saving lives during a disaster.
Sophie Chan (Played by Chelsea Muirhead)
Another new face to the trauma center is Sophie Chan, an intern at Maguire who forms a fast friendship with medical student Camila Perez. Like Camila, Sophie is also mentored by Dr. Natalie Cruz, further emphasizing Cruz's role in developing new talent. Sophie's perspective as an intern will provide insights into the steepest part of the medical learning curve, especially with the added pressure of a hurricane.
Chelsea Muirhead has appeared in series such as Slo Pitch and Warrior. Her role as Sophie will likely explore the challenges and triumphs of starting a medical career in the most demanding of environments.
Dr. Harper Simms (Played by Jessy Yates)
Adding a compelling family dynamic to the professional intensity is Dr. Harper Simms, a second-year emergency medicine resident and Danny’s younger sister. This sibling relationship within the same high-pressure workplace guarantees personal stakes will always be intertwined with professional ones. The presence of a family member offers opportunities for both support and conflict, especially given Danny’s new leadership role and her ongoing personal drama.
Jessy Yates, who plays Harper, previously starred in Apple TV+’s series Me. Her role as Danny's sister will surely explore the complexities of family working under the same roof, particularly when one sibling is suddenly in a position of authority over the other.
Gabriel (Played by Santiago Segura)
Rounding out the vital emergency room staff is Gabriel, a nurse at the Maguire trauma center. Nurses are the backbone of any hospital, and Gabriel's role will likely showcase the unwavering dedication and practical skills required to keep an E.R. running amidst chaos.
Santiago Segura is no stranger to the medical drama genre or intense television, having had roles in Scream: The TV Series (alongside Willa Fitzgerald) and, notably, Grey’s Anatomy itself. His prior experience in a show Pulse is being compared to, gives him a unique insight into the rhythms and demands of this type of storytelling.
Unpacking the Themes: More Than Just Medical Cases
While Pulse is undeniably a medical drama, the detailed character descriptions and premise hint at a rich tapestry of themes beyond emergency procedures. The show promises to delve deep into:
- Leadership Under Duress: Danny Simms's unexpected promotion throws her into the deep end, forcing her to prove herself to colleagues, superiors, and, perhaps most importantly, herself.
- The Weight of Personal History: The exposed relationship between Danny and Xander, and their forced collaboration, ensures that past emotions and unresolved issues will constantly bubble to the surface, influencing their decisions and interactions.
- Office Politics and Power Struggles: Dr. Soriano's disagreement with Dr. Cruz’s decision, coupled with Tom Cole’s investigation into Xander’s suspension, points to intricate hospital politics that will further complicate an already chaotic environment.
- Resilience and Humanity in Crisis: The natural disaster serves as a potent backdrop against which acts of heroism, self-sacrifice, and profound human connection will play out.
- Romance in the ER: The comparison to early Grey's Anatomy isn't just about medical intensity; it's about the "sexy, romantic, and dramatic" relationships that develop and unravel amidst the high-pressure world of medicine.
These interwoven elements suggest a show that aims to be both thrillingly visceral in its medical scenes and deeply engaging in its human drama. It’s a delicate balance that, if executed well, could make Pulse a standout series for Netflix.
Anticipating the Storm: What to Expect Next
With a stellar cast bringing complex characters to life and seasoned showrunners guiding the narrative, Pulse is positioned to be a compelling addition to Netflix's lineup. The blend of a natural disaster, high-stakes medical emergencies, and intricate personal relationships promises a viewing experience that is both intense and emotionally resonant.
As you prepare for the premiere on April 3, remember that every doctor, nurse, and student at Maguire Medical Center will be pushed to their limits, forced to confront not only the physical wounds of their patients but also their own emotional scars. The show's premise guarantees that there will be no shortage of drama, both in the operating room and in the fraught hallways of a hospital under siege.
To fully prepare for the impending medical drama and to keep track of all the unfolding stories, you'll want to stay updated. Make sure you're ready to dive into every critical moment as the series progresses. For a full breakdown of the season and all its dramatic turns, be sure to check out our guide to All Pulse 2025 Episodes. Get ready to experience the rush—Pulse is almost here.