**Judy Reyes Brings Family Connection to ‘Scrubs’ Reboot with a Touch of Broadway Magic**
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Judy Reyes returns to her beloved role as Carla Espinosa in the much-anticipated reboot of “Scrubs,” a role that has garnered her significant excitement, both professionally and personally. The actress, who is now 58 years old, has found a unique way to bond with her teenage son during his formative years, which included a special connection to the show that became a comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reyes noted that her son became enamoured with “Scrubs” while staying at home during lockdowns, watching the series multiple times. “He loved it and watched every episode twice,” she told PEOPLE in an exclusive interview at the recent PaleyFest LA event held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. “It’s amazing how it has cultivated a connection with his friends, making me seem a lot cooler in their eyes.”
Fulfilling the role of a “cool mum,” Reyes embraced the opportunity to bring her son to the set of the “Scrubs” reboot, where he was given the chance to meet someone he greatly admired. “He was particularly excited to meet Michael James Scott, who is well-known for his role in Aladdin the Musical,” she shared. “As a huge fan of the show, he was practically buzzing with excitement.”
Michael James Scott, a prominent figure on Broadway, has captivated audiences as the Genie in “Aladdin the Musical” for several years across various productions, including in the West End and during the U.S. National Tour. This connection to the theatrical world only further elevated Reyes’ status as a “cool mum” in her son’s eyes. The actress fondly recounted her son’s reaction to meeting Scott, saying he exclaimed, “Oh my God, I’m so excited to meet you!”
Following their introduction, a friendship blossomed between her son and Scott, with both now following each other on Instagram. Reyes spoke of the rapport they have developed, stating, “They’re besties now,” highlighting the unique blend of family, fandom, and professional camaraderie fostered on set.
Scott has enjoyed a remarkable career on Broadway since making his debut in “All Shook Up” in 2005, showcasing his immense talent in productions such as “Tarzan,” “Mamma Mia!,” and “The Book of Mormon.” As he prepares for his last performance as the Genie—scheduled for May 3—Scott reflected on the emotional journey of portraying this iconic character. “It feels so crazy. There are so many emotions running through me. It has been the honour of a lifetime to play a role built on joy and love,” he shared with ABC 7.
At the PaleyFest LA event, Scott also expressed his surprise at landing a role in the “Scrubs” revival. “It never was on my bingo card that Michael James Scott would be in the revival of Scrubs,” he said with disbelief. This enthusiasm translated into strong relationships with his co-stars, particularly with Zach Braff, with whom he has shared several memorable moments during filming.
The camaraderie off-screen has manifested in light-hearted interactions on set. Scott shared an amusing Instagram post, showing off his and Braff’s impromptu performances of musical numbers while awaiting their next scenes. “This is what happens when you put theatre kids on a TV set and give them five minutes between scenes,” he jokingly noted.
“Scrubs,” which is now available to stream on Hulu, has a rich history that continues to resonate with viewers old and new. The combination of nostalgia, fresh content, and authentic connections among the cast enriches the upcoming series, promising a delightful mix of humour and heartfelt moments for audiences to enjoy.
As Reyes and Scott continue to thread their individual experiences into the fabric of the “Scrubs” reboot, both are reminded of the power of connections—be it in the world of theatre or television. The interplay between their personal lives and professional careers highlights the enduring importance of both family and entertainment in times of uncertainty.