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Network: NBC

Premiere: Thursday, September 25, 10pm

Cast: Maura Tierney, John Stamos, Parminder Nagra, Mekhi Phifer, Linda Cardellini and Scott Grimes

Previously on ER: A bomb exploded in an ambulance, killing a man in the Witness Protection Program. Viewers were left unaware of which doctor may have been along for the ride.

ER is coming back for its 15th and final season, or so they say.  Last year was supposed to be the last one, but the writers' strike prevented them from ending it right, so now there's a whole new year.

This final season brings with it many new and old faces.  Returning for several episodes will be Noah Wyle as John Carter, who started the series as an intern in the pilot.  Shane West will also be back as Ray, the cocky young doctor who tragically had his legs amputated after being hit by a truck.

As for the new, Angela Bassett joins the cast as the new chief.  The Oscar and Emmy nominated star previously had a recurring role on Alias.

County General will also see an influx of new, young interns.  Shiri Appleby will follow in her Roswell co-star Katherine Heigl's shoes, playing an intern.  Another new character will be played by Emily Rose, who was virtually everywhere last year, appearing on John from Cincinnati, Jericho, and Brothers and Sisters.  Joining them are Dominican actor Victor Rasuk and British actor Julian Morris.

Given that this is the show's official final season, there is also the possibility for even more old faces to return one last time.  However, executive producer John Wells has stated that the return of Doug and Carol (George Clooney and Julianna Magulies) is unlikely, simply because he feels the end of their story was so perfect that bringing them back would only ruin it.


-John Kubicek, BuddyTV Senior Writer
(Image courtesy of NBC)