Awards Buzz was on the red carpet for the highly anticipated season finale of Scrubs, where we caught up with the series stars, Zach Braff and Donald Faison. Speaking with Awards Buzz’s Sari Cohen, the duo reflected on the emotional return to the series, the overwhelming fan response, and how their characters have evolved over time.
Q: (Sari Cohen)
We were at the premiere and now we’re here at the finale. What has this run of the revival felt like, and how are fans responding?
A: (Zach Braff & Donald Faison)
Braff: The fan reaction has been incredible. I was really nervous because we know how passionate people are about the show and how important it is to them. We didn’t want to let them down, so seeing such an overwhelmingly positive response has been amazing. Especially since I directed the pilot, I was extra nervous.
Faison: We started this for the fans and we’re doing it for them. The critics have been great too, but hearing fans say, “You guys are back—you did it,” that’s the best feeling.
Q: (Sari Cohen)
What has been your favorite off-screen moment during the revival?
A: (Zach Braff & Donald Faison)
Braff: Directing the pilot stands out. It was challenging and I was nervous, but everyone brought their A-game. The crew was so passionate, and Donald had this really moving moment in a scene that just hit in a way I didn’t expect. There were days where I thought, “Wow, this might actually be really good.”
Faison: For me, it goes back to the fans again. Just seeing their reaction and how much it means to them—that’s been the highlight.
Q: (Sari Cohen)
What has been the biggest difference coming back now versus 20 years ago?
A: (Zach Braff & Donald Faison)
Faison: I’m a lot older now, so my stamina isn’t what it used to be. We used to do 16- or 17-hour days, and I can’t even imagine that now… I mean, I would do it, but it’s definitely different.
Braff: I think what’s interesting is how the characters have matured along with us. There’s still that same humor and friendship, but now there’s more depth, especially in how they approach their work and relationships.
Q: (Sari Cohen)
How has it been to grow these characters, and where would you like to see them go next?
A: (Zach Braff & Donald Faison)
Faison: I love that Turk is a grown man now. He is a great teacher, a great father, and still happily married. Showing that kind of long-lasting love on television is really meaningful. He’s still fun and youthful, but he’s also present and grounded.
Braff: I’d love to keep exploring that with J.D. too—seeing him become a better teacher while still holding onto that silliness. And of course, there’s a lot of comedy to mine in his personal life, especially navigating relationships.
Q: (Sari Cohen)
Since we are Awards Buzz, if you could give out an award to anyone involved, what would it be?
A: (Zach Braff & Donald Faison)
Braff: I’d give Best Production Design to our production designer. Recreating that hospital on a stage was an enormous undertaking, and the level of detail and artistry is incredible.
Faison: I’d give a Best Ensemble award to everyone, the cast, crew, writers, and publicity, everyone came to play this time around. It’s been a great ride.
