When we last saw rocker doctor Ray Barnett (
Shane West) on
ER, he was heading home to Baton Rouge to see his mother. He was mending a broken heart and recovering from a tragic car accident that caused him his two legs.
Entertainment Weekly reports that the star of
A Walk to Remember will return on ER's 15th season, specifically on the October 30 episode. Thanks to cutting-edge prosthetics and months of rehab, Barnett will once again be able to walk on his own.
According to ER executive producer Joe Sachs, West will have both his feet firmly planted on the ground. "He's walking on his own again. He in no way appears disabled. He's been through hell and has come out a better, stronger guy. He's matured. He knows what's important in his life."
Sachs furthermore reveals that although Ray will be back only for a brief time in Chicago to attend a medical conference, he confirms that his presence has a huge impact on ex-roommate and unrequited love Neela, played by
Parminder Nagra.
“His return affects her in a big way. It stir the embers of that relationship and makes her question, "Could I be with this guy now? He's coming back at the right time, when she needs that friend and possibly that romance back. There are definitely sparks reignited."
After the October 30 episode, West will be back for at least one more episode towards the end of the series. And the people behind the Emmy Award-winning medical drama promise that it's going to bring a huge surprise to fans.
Shane West's character first appeared on
ER's 11th season in fall 2004. He is a talented doctor but his other life as a rock musician has caused incessant conflicts with his commitments.
ER returns Thursdays September 25 at 10/9pm C.
-Glenn L. Diaz, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: Entertainment Weekly
(Image Courtesy of NBC)