Do you love medical dramas? If so, you may have watched The God Committee. But are the doctors and patients on this show based on real people?
The series follows a group of hospital staffers who are tasked with reviewing cases that involve the line between life and death. The main character, Dr. Leo Winters (Colman Domingo) leads the team when it comes to making the tough calls — and he’s joined by his girlfriend, Dr. Alexandra Calder (Julia Stiles).
Just like most shows, not everything is exactly as it seems. While the characters are based on real people and inspired by their experiences, there was no real “God Committees” at Sloan Kettering. However, there was a Policy and Program Oversight Committee that did exist at Sloan Kettering during the time frame the series takes place.
The series is certainly inspired by real life, but it’s far from a biopic. According to an interview with TV Guide, creator David Schulner said he was inspired by real-life cases as well as his personal experiences in medical school.
“This story has been percolating for years,” he explained. “I've had so many amazing experiences in my time in medicine. One case that really made a huge impression on me was this doctor who got sued after deciding not to resuscitate [a patient]. I found that fascinating because I thought, 'Oh my God, what would I do if I was in that situation?'
Is The God Committee based on a book?
The God Committee wasn’t based on a book. But that realism has to come from somewhere, right? You’re correct! Austin Stark’s hit drama is actually based on Mark St. Germain’s 2006 play of the same name.