As “Chicago Med” gears up for its milestone 10th season, prepare for an unprecedented revitalization that promises to breathe “a whole new life into the show.” According to series veteran Marlyne Barrett, who embodies the formidable charge nurse Maggie Lockwood, the upcoming installment is nothing short of a “second coming” for the beloved medical drama. This bold declaration is largely attributed to the arrival of new head writer Allen MacDonald, whom Barrett effusively praises as “the Christopher Nolan of television in the medical world.” With MacDonald at the helm, Barrett teases that Season 10 will be the “most extraordinary” yet, a sentiment that will undoubtedly ignite immense anticipation among long-time fans and new viewers alike.

The journey into this revitalized era begins with an immediate jolt. Barrett can barely contain her excitement, gushing, “I can’t wait for you guys to see episode three — although episode one is fantastic.” She then drops a bombshell about the season’s electrifying start: the premiere episode will kick off with a catastrophic shipwreck. This isn’t just a minor incident; Barrett describes it as “the most emergent experience,” painting a vivid picture of chaos and high stakes. She emphasizes the immediate aftermath, detailing “the ambulances that arrive, the state of emergency,” and ultimately, a palpable shift in the show’s energy. “Man, there was a pulse to the show that I hadn’t felt in a long time, although I’m very passionate about the show,” she confesses, indicating a renewed sense of urgency and dynamism that has invigorated the cast and crew.

This “new breath to the One Chicago Med family” has evidently excited Barrett, who enthuses, “By the time you get to episode three, you’re like, ‘This is a completely new show.'” Her description suggests a radical transformation, so much so that she admits she doesn’t “even recognize” the show with the changes. While filming episode three, Barrett vividly recalls feeding off the raw energy and “current climate in Chicago,” which seemingly infused the production with an authentic, vibrant feel. “Everything was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this city, this show is alive,'” she recounts, praising the episode as “extraordinary.” She specifically highlights its theme, noting, “It’s about femininity with courage… It was courageous writing,” hinting at powerful, character-driven narratives that challenge traditional medical drama tropes.

Having completed filming up to episode four and having read scripts through episode six, Barrett’s excitement is infectious as she eagerly anticipates audience reactions to this bold new season. Her confidence is so high that she makes a playful, yet daring, prediction: “I’m really excited to say that I believe that One Chicago, I’ll dare say it, we’re going to give Law & Order a run.” She quickly adds a humorous disclaimer, “It’s in the same family, so please, nobody get upset that I say this,” acknowledging the shared universe while clearly asserting Chicago Med‘s heightened ambition.

This creative overhaul comes amidst significant casting changes that promise to shake up the dynamics at the Gaffney Chicago Medical Center. In August, NBC announced the addition of two new series regulars for Season 10: Sarah Ramos and Darren Barnet. Ramos will step into the role of Dr. Caitlin Lenox, while Barnet will portray Dr. John Frost. These fresh faces will undoubtedly introduce new storylines and character relationships when the show returns on Wednesday, September 25th. Their arrival follows a series of notable departures, most significantly that of Dominic Rains, who portrayed Dr. Crockett Marcel for five seasons and whose exit was confirmed by PEOPLE in June.

Beyond the cast, the leadership behind the scenes has also seen a major shake-up. Long-time co-showrunners Diane Frolov and Andy Schneider have departed the series after nine years, paving the way for the aforementioned Allen MacDonald to take the reins as the new head writer. Despite these significant changes, core cast members are set to return, ensuring a balance of fresh perspectives and familiar faces. Jessy Schram, Steven Weber, and Luke Mitchell are all expected to reprise their roles, joining original cast members like Oliver Platt (Dr. Daniel Charles) and S. Epatha Merkerson (Sharon Goodwin). This mix of returning favorites and exciting new talent, combined with a revitalized writing vision, sets the stage for what Marlyne Barrett believes will be an unforgettable and truly transformative 10th season.

Prepare for a rush of adrenaline, emotional depth, and a narrative urgency that “Chicago Med” fans haven’t felt in years, as the show promises to deliver a truly “extraordinary” experience when it premieres on Wednesday, September 25th, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.