Martin Clunes stars in Best Medicine, the US remake of Doc Martin
On March 6, 2026, Martin Clunes made his debut in the US remake of the beloved British series Doc Martin, titled Best Medicine. The show premiered on Fox, with Clunes taking on the role of Dr. Robert Best, who is the father of the main character.
The series aims to capture the charm and humor of the original show, which has garnered a loyal fanbase since its debut in 2004. Clunes, who is well-known for his portrayal of the titular character in Doc Martin, has been praised for his ability to bridge the gap between the original and the new adaptation. Abigail Spencer, one of the co-stars, expressed her excitement on social media, stating, “How lucky are we? Tonight on #BestMedicineFOX with the OG!”
Best Medicine is set in the quaint village of Norton St Philip, where two iconic pubs play a significant role in the storyline. The Drovers Arms, depicted in the show, is represented by the Fleur de Lys pub, which dates back to the 1500s and is described as charming and historic. Meanwhile, the George Inn, a historic 14th-century Grade I listed Tudor inn, serves as a rival pub in the film, adding to the local color and competition.
Clunes stars alongside a talented cast, including James Buckley, Mark Addy, and Gabriella Wilde. Their performances, combined with Clunes’ established reputation, are expected to attract both fans of the original series and new viewers alike. Josh Charles, another cast member, commented on Clunes’ involvement, saying, “Having Martin Clunes is a great bridge for the lovers of the original show, and I think he’s extremely charming and talented.”
In addition to his role in Best Medicine, Clunes is also set to portray Huw Edwards in an upcoming Channel 5 drama titled Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards. This drama follows the story of Edwards, who pleaded guilty to making indecent images of children in July 2024. The BBC was informed of Edwards’ arrest in November 2023, and the drama is anticipated to air soon.
Ben Frow, a key figure behind the Channel 5 drama, described the story as “an important and shocking story of how a man in a position of power and trust betrayed that status.” This new role showcases Clunes’ versatility as an actor, further expanding his repertoire beyond the comedic realm of Best Medicine.
As the premiere of Best Medicine unfolds, fans are eager to see how the series will adapt the beloved elements of Doc Martin while introducing new storylines and characters. The combination of Clunes’ established talent and the rich historical backdrop of Norton St Philip is expected to create a captivating viewing experience.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the show’s reception, but early reactions suggest a positive response from audiences who appreciate the blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling.