It’s not regular TV, it’s NBC! Mastermind Producer/Writer Dick Wolf (Law & Order) brings his ‘A’ game to Chicago with a unique TV experience, 3 shows, 1 universe.
Actor Colin Donnell, speaking by phone from the Phoenix Airport, and Joe Minoso in Chicago, discuss the 3 part crossover for Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago PD, starting tonight, January 5 and concluding tomorrow, January 6 on NBC.
Joe Minoso’s character on Chicago Fire, Joe Cruz, has introduced a volatile young kid into his firehouse family. Things turn serious when the emotional boy attacks a a member of the team with a knife and his condition takes a turn for the worse, leaving Dr. Connor Rhodes (Colin Donnell, Chicago Med) struggling against the clock to save his life. Tension mounts in the hospital as word spreads among his fellow doctors that he should have operated sooner. Meanwhile, pregnant widow Dr. Natalie Manning (Torrey DeVitto), makes preparations for her child’s birth and Nurse April Sexton’s (Yaya DaCosta) brother (guest star Roland Buck III) struggles through his first day at the hospital. Members of the Chicago P.D. Intelligence Unit help investigate whether the case of a women clinging to life after Firehouse 51 pulled her out of a burning building is attempted suicide or murder. As the investigation deepens, a surprising parallel to other patients surfaces.
Colin, what kind of logistics were involved in pulling together 3 casts for one unifying story?
Colin Donnell. The pressure was really behind the scenes, not only for the writers, but it involved a lot of extra work for the crews of each show. It was exciting and inspiring to be a part of the teamwork that was involved in creating this unprecedented concept for TV entertainment. It becomes more like watching a movie than a TV show.
Joe, what are you enjoying most about the third season of Chicago Fire?
Joe Minoso. There is always an air of excitement on the set. It feels really innovative and new, plus I am getting the opportunity to do more of my own stunts. I came from working in live theater, so I am relishing the meaty dialogue that the writers are infusing into the action this season.
Colin, what are you enjoying most about joining the cast of Chicago Med?
Colin Donnell. That’s a tough question to answer. I guess one of the things I’m enjoying is the rich characters the writers have developed. Every character has his own backstory, personal issues, family problems, stress, etc. The writers are deliberately shining a light on every character, making them relatable and human. They aren’t perfect, they compete, they struggle with their shortcomings, just like the rest of the world. It’s also great to work with seasoned pros, S. Epatha Merkerson and Oliver Platt.
Joe, you grew up in the Bronx. How does that life experience influence what you bring to your character in Chicago Fire.
Joe Minoso. Everything! But mostly I would say the exposure to how being yourself, having fun, and looking on the bright side is paramount when you are putting your life on the line everyday. Being a fireman is a stressful and emotional job. The camaraderie and family atmosphere of a firehouse, or a TV set, helps to lighten the atmosphere and allows life to keep flowing despite resistance.
The Chicago 3-part crossover starts tonight, January 5, 2016 with Chicago Fire at 9PM – ET on NBC, and continues into Chicago Med at 10 ET, wrapping up tomorrow night, January 6, on Chicago PD at 10 PM – ET on NBC.
Thanks guys, it was super fun to speak with you.
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