NBC's "St. Denis Medical" star Josh Lawson on the Art of TV Comedy

Navigating a Difficult Job Market

The pilot episode of St. Denis Medical first filmed nearly two years ago, just before the WGA and SAG-AFTRA labor strikes that paused productions in Hollywood for nearly six months. During our conversation, Lawson expressed immense gratitude for securing a role and ensemble he quickly came to love. "Getting the job… in a world and a time when work is becoming increasingly more difficult to get, I feel relief, gratitude," he shares. When we asked about his experience with the critical praise for the series and fan reception, he admitted he chooses to not focus on it. "I don't read reviews or anything like that. I stay completely oblivious to all that stuff. I'm not on social media, so I don't see anything there," he admits.

Having learned “the hard way”, as he described it, Josh prioritizes mental well-being over external opinions, acknowledging that he lacks the emotional resilience to endure the constant scrutiny that comes with public visibility. "I just realized either I was going to have a mental breakdown and stay on social media, or I was going to get off it, and just admit that ignorance was bliss, and I'm glad that I did."

ST. DENIS MEDICAL -- "Nobody Even Mentions the Brownies" Episode 111 -- Pictured: Josh Lawson as Dr. Bruce -- (Photo by: Ron Batzdorff/NBC)

Transitioning from Australia to Hollywood

Josh’s journey began in his childhood, acting from the age of eight in his hometown of Brisbane, Queensland. His early career aspirations were shaped by his love for American sitcoms. Golden Girls, Family Ties, Cheers, Married With Children... that was my era. I just loved that world."

Determined to make it to Hollywood, he pursued formal training at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and leveraged his education to gain representation. His breakthrough came with the Australian improv-based comedy show Thank God, You're Here, which gave him the momentum to set up meetings in Los Angeles. However, his timing coincided with the 2008 writer’s strike. "I landed on the day of the writer's strike…” he laughed. “Hollywood shut down. That was my beginning in Hollywood." Despite this rocky start, he persisted, staying in Los Angeles for 15 years, continuously auditioning and working his way into the industry.

Career Trajectories and Unexpected Setbacks

Like many actors, Josh assumed that once he started booking roles, his career would follow a linear upward trajectory. "I always expected that once I started to work, it would only go in one direction," he says. "I was ill-prepared for the drop." When work became scarce, he grappled with the harsh realities of an unpredictable industry. "It's erratic, it's unpredictable. The drop is not personal. It's just the way the industry works."

During these career lulls, he contemplated alternative paths. "At some point, it's about survival. You have to have a roof over your head and put food on the table." Teaching became a viable option. "I could start to teach. I wouldn't have to leave the industry entirely, but I could still talk about this thing that I loved." Even now, he enjoys mentoring students, describing it as a rewarding experience that keeps him connected to his passion for storytelling.

ST. DENIS MEDICAL -- "Listen to Your Ladybugs" Episode 114 -- Pictured: Josh Lawson as Dr. Bruce -- (Photo by: NBC)

Balancing Drama and Comedy on St. Denis Medical

While there are subtle and relatable hilarious moments on St. Denis Medical, whether it's the overbearing boss or the coworker who is just running out the clock at work, the series shares its heartfelt moments to cap off most episodes. “Comedies today that don't explore that balance can seem a little old fashioned,” Lawson shared. “It feels like audiences now really need a bit more of a spectrum of genre even within a comedy. You very rarely go to a hospital on your best day. You're often there on your worst day, for lots of reasons, so a hospital setting is perfect for that balance, because you know the misadventures of the staff and the administration.”

Lawson’s advice to young actors serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of balance and perspective. “Make sure you find something else to love as much,” he shares, emphasizing how vital it is to have passions beyond acting. “This industry is abusive… it doesn’t mean to be. It just is.” Reflecting on his own journey, he encourages actors to embrace the world beyond their craft, assuring that it will not only enrich their lives but also make them better performers. And in a final gem of wisdom, he adds, “Talk to old people! … They are amazing instructors of the human condition.”

Watch our full conversation with Josh Lawson on YouTube, or tune in Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!