Veteran actress Annie Potts, best known to millions as the wisecracking and fiercely loving Meemaw in Young Sheldon, is stepping into a brand-new role — and it’s got fans buzzing. FOX has officially announced that Potts will join the cast of its upcoming medical comedy-drama Best Medicine, a U.S. adaptation of the beloved British hit Doc Martin.
If you love heartwarming stories with quirky characters and a dose of dry humor, this is the prescription you didn’t know you needed.
Annie Potts: From Meemaw to Medicine
For Young Sheldon fans, Annie Potts’ portrayal of Meemaw — Sheldon’s sharp, cigar-smoking grandmother — was iconic. Now, she’s bringing that same mix of tough love and heart to a new character: Aunt Joan, a key figure in FOX’s new dramedy Best Medicine.
What Is ‘Best Medicine’ About?
Best Medicine centers around Dr. Martin Best, a brilliant Boston surgeon who suffers from debilitating panic attacks and must give up his high-stakes career. He returns to his coastal hometown to become a general practitioner — despite being utterly out of sync with the small-town vibe.
It’s funny, emotional, and packed with colorful characters. Think of it as Doc Martin meets Parenthood with a splash of Northern Exposure.
Who Is Aunt Joan in ‘Best Medicine’?
Aunt Joan, played by Potts, is no gentle granny. She’s described as:
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Tough as nails
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Independent
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Emotionally guarded
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A lobster-fishing local legend
She has a complicated relationship with her nephew Martin, but she’ll be one of his few lifelines as he stumbles through this new chapter. It’s a role made for Potts — equal parts salty and sweet, with a deep undercurrent of emotional complexity.
A Role That Plays to Potts’ Strengths
Potts has built a career playing women who are:
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Fierce
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Funny
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Flawed — in the best way
From Janine in Ghostbusters to Mary Jo in Designing Women, and of course, Meemaw, she knows how to own a scene and anchor a story. Aunt Joan fits this legacy like a glove.
The Rest of the ‘Best Medicine’ Cast
Annie Potts joins a stellar lineup of actors already confirmed for the series:
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Josh Charles (The Good Wife) as Dr. Martin Best
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Abigail Spencer (Timeless) as Louisa Glasson, a local schoolteacher and Martin’s love interest
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Josh Segarra (She-Hulk) as Sheriff Mark Mylow, the town’s charming cop
Each actor brings a mix of dramatic credibility and comic timing — making this ensemble one to watch.
Where and When Is ‘Best Medicine’ Set?
The show is set in a small, fictional seaside town in the U.S., where the sea is as moody as its residents. Filming begins in summer 2025, with upstate New York doubling for the rugged coast.
FOX is eyeing a midseason premiere — likely early 2026.
Why This Show Has Breakout Potential
FOX is promoting Best Medicine as a “one-hour comedy”, combining laughs with genuine emotional storytelling. This format lets characters evolve over time and lets actors like Potts stretch both comedic and dramatic muscles.
With Ted Lasso, Shrinking, and other “dramedies” gaining traction, this is a smart move by FOX — and Potts is a perfect anchor.
Perfect Timing for Potts
Potts is on a hot streak:
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Young Sheldon wrapped with a heartfelt finale
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Her performance was critically praised and beloved by fans
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She’s transitioning into roles that celebrate strong, older women — not sideline them
Aunt Joan isn’t just a character. She’s a statement.
A Family Dynamic That Will Hook You
At its core, Best Medicine is about rebuilding relationships, especially the one between Martin and Joan. He’s emotionally broken. She’s hardened by life. Together? Expect fireworks, friction, and ultimately, forgiveness.
What Annie Potts Has Said (So Far)
While Potts hasn’t given an official quote yet, insiders report that she was “thrilled to take on a lead role that balances grit, humor, and vulnerability.”
She reportedly loved the script and was eager to work with Josh Charles and Abigail Spencer.
The Buzz Is Building
TV critics are already pegging Best Medicine as one of FOX’s most anticipated midseason releases. With a recognizable cast, a strong IP (Doc Martin ran for 10 seasons in the UK), and modern storytelling appeal, it has all the ingredients for success.
Aesthetics Matter Too
Filming in upstate New York gives Best Medicine that weathered, seaside charm — fog, boats, harbors, and clapboard houses — perfect for cozy TV escapism.
Will This Be Potts’ Next Iconic Role?
There’s a real chance Aunt Joan could join Meemaw, Mary Jo, and Janine as one of Potts’ signature characters. She has the material. She has the screen time. And she has the talent.
Conclusion
Annie Potts is stepping into a bold, funny, and heartfelt role in FOX’s Best Medicine, and it might just be the show that delivers the perfect dose of TV magic in 2026. With a brilliant cast, a proven concept, and a beloved lead, this series is already looking like must-watch material.
If you loved Young Sheldon, appreciate smart comedy with heart, or just want to see Annie Potts in all her glory — this one’s for you.
❓FAQs
1. What role is Annie Potts playing in Best Medicine?
She plays Aunt Joan, a tough, lobster-boat-owning aunt with deep emotional layers and a rocky relationship with her nephew, Dr. Martin Best.
2. Is Best Medicine a remake?
Yes. It’s a U.S. adaptation of the British medical dramedy Doc Martin, known for its dry humor and emotional storytelling.
3. When will Best Medicine premiere?
FOX is planning to debut the show in early 2026 as a midseason launch.
4. Who else stars in Best Medicine?
Josh Charles, Abigail Spencer, and Josh Segarra join Potts in the main cast.
5. Where will the series be filmed?
Filming is set to begin in upstate New York, chosen for its rugged coastal look.
Catch Annie Potts in her next unforgettable role — Aunt Joan in FOX’s Best Medicine. This is one prescription you won’t want to miss.
