Julianna Margulies & George Clooney: ER's Enduring Legacy
For many television viewers, the names Julianna Margulies and George Clooney are inextricably linked to the fast-paced, emotionally charged corridors of County General Hospital. Their portrayal of Nurse Carol Hathaway and Dr. Doug Ross on NBC's groundbreaking medical drama, ER, captivated audiences worldwide, creating one of television's most iconic and beloved on-screen couples. More than two decades after the show first aired, their professional respect and genuine friendship continue to shine, proving that some bonds forged in the intense world of television can truly last a lifetime.
The enduring appeal of Carol and Doug wasn't just about the dramatic storylines; it was the palpable chemistry between Julianna Margulies and George Clooney that made their characters feel incredibly real and their relationship deeply resonant. This connection, born on screen, transcended into a lasting off-screen camaraderie that fans have cherished for years. Their story is a testament to the power of shared experiences and mutual admiration in Hollywood.
Table of Contents
- Biography: Julianna Margulies
- Personal Data: Julianna Margulies
- Biography: George Clooney
- Personal Data: George Clooney
- The ER Phenomenon and a Fateful Audition
- Carol and Doug: Forever Linked
- Post-ER Success and Individual Journeys
- Reunions and Philanthropy: Keeping the Bond Alive
- Mutual Admiration and Respect
Biography: Julianna Margulies
Julianna Margulies, born June 8, 1966, in Spring Valley, New York, is an American actress who has captivated audiences with her powerful and nuanced performances across television, film, and stage. The youngest of three daughters, Margulies' early life was marked by frequent moves, including to England and France, before her family settled in New Hampshire. She attended Sarah Lawrence College, where she studied liberal arts and discovered her passion for acting, graduating in 1989.
After college, Margulies honed her craft in New York City's theater scene and took on various small roles in film and television. Her breakthrough came in 1994 when she was cast as Nurse Carol Hathaway in the pilot episode of the NBC medical drama, ER. What was initially intended to be a one-episode role—her character was supposed to die from an overdose—transformed into a career-defining performance that earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1995. She remained with ER for six seasons, becoming one of the show's most beloved characters.
Following her departure from ER in 2000, Margulies consciously sought out diverse roles to avoid typecasting. She appeared in various independent films and returned to the stage, earning critical acclaim. However, it was her return to television in 2009 with the legal drama "The Good Wife" that solidified her status as a leading lady. Her portrayal of Alicia Florrick earned her two more Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, cementing her place as one of television's most decorated actresses. Margulies has continued to take on challenging roles, including in "The Morning Show" and "Billions," demonstrating her versatility and enduring talent. She also appeared on Broadway in the romantic production "Left on Tenth" in 2023.
Personal Data: Julianna Margulies
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Julianna Luisa Margulies |
| Date of Birth | June 8, 1966 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 58 |
| Place of Birth | Spring Valley, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Spouse | Keith Lieberthal (m. 2007) |
| Notable Roles | Nurse Carol Hathaway (ER), Alicia Florrick (The Good Wife) |
| Awards | 3 Primetime Emmy Awards, 1 Golden Globe Award, 6 Screen Actors Guild Awards |
Biography: George Clooney
George Timothy Clooney, born May 6, 1961, in Lexington, Kentucky, is an American actor, film director, producer, and screenwriter. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in entertainment—his aunt was singer and actress Rosemary Clooney, and his father, Nick Clooney, was a television personality—George was destined for a life in the spotlight. He initially pursued a career in sports, trying out for professional baseball, but ultimately found his calling in acting.
Clooney's early acting career was marked by a series of smaller roles in television sitcoms and films throughout the 1980s. His big break arrived in 1994 when he was cast as the charming and rebellious pediatrician Dr. Doug Ross on ER. His charismatic portrayal quickly made him a household name and a global sex symbol. He remained with the show for five seasons, departing in 1999 to focus on his burgeoning film career, though he made guest appearances in later seasons.
Post-ER, Clooney transitioned seamlessly into a highly successful film career, becoming one of Hollywood's most bankable stars. He has starred in a diverse range of films, from blockbusters like "Ocean's Eleven" and "Batman & Robin" to critically acclaimed dramas such as "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", "Syriana" (for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor), and "Michael Clayton." Beyond acting, Clooney has established himself as a respected director and producer, earning an Academy Award for Best Picture as a producer for "Argo" in 2013. His directorial credits include "Good Night, and Good Luck" and "The Ides of March," both of which received Oscar nominations. Known for his philanthropic efforts and activism, George Clooney is not just a Hollywood icon but also a prominent humanitarian.
Personal Data: George Clooney
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | George Timothy Clooney |
| Date of Birth | May 6, 1961 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 63 |
| Place of Birth | Lexington, Kentucky, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor, Director, Producer, Screenwriter |
| Spouse | Amal Alamuddin (m. 2014) |
| Notable Roles | Dr. Doug Ross (ER), Danny Ocean (Ocean's Eleven franchise), Batman (Batman & Robin) |
| Awards | 2 Academy Awards, 4 Golden Globe Awards, 1 BAFTA Award |
The ER Phenomenon and a Fateful Audition
The year 1994 marked a turning point in television history with the premiere of ER. This medical drama redefined the genre with its fast-paced storytelling, realistic medical procedures, and compelling character arcs. At its heart were the dedicated, often flawed, medical professionals of County General. Among them, the passionate and often troubled Dr. Doug Ross, played by George Clooney, and the resilient and compassionate Nurse Carol Hathaway, brought to life by Julianna Margulies, quickly became fan favorites. Julianna Margulies played Nurse Carol Hathaway opposite George Clooney's Dr. Doug Ross on the NBC medical drama from 1994 to 2000, creating a dynamic that would define a generation of television.
The Near Miss That Changed Everything
It's fascinating to consider how close the world came to never seeing the iconic Carol and Doug pairing. Julianna Margulies herself recently revealed a near-botched audition that almost cost her the role. During a recent appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” on November 8, Julianna Margulies, 58, admitted that she nearly botched her “ER” audition. Even more astonishing, her character, Carol Hathaway, was originally slated for a very different fate. Margulies shared, “The character dies in the pilot from a drug overdose.” This shocking revelation highlights how pivotal George Clooney's presence was. Julianna Margulies may not have had as long of a tenure on ER if it weren’t for George Clooney. His undeniable chemistry with Margulies in the pilot was so potent that producers decided to rewrite Carol's storyline, saving her from an early demise and allowing her character to become a central figure in the series, forever entwined with Dr. Ross.
Carol and Doug: Forever Linked
The love story of Carol Hathaway and Doug Ross became the emotional anchor of ER for many seasons. Their tumultuous, passionate, and ultimately enduring relationship resonated deeply with viewers. It wasn't just a romance; it was a complex portrayal of two dedicated professionals navigating life, death, and personal struggles within the demanding environment of an emergency room. Their on-again, off-again dynamic kept audiences on the edge of their seats, always rooting for them to find their way back to each other. "It always had to be Carol and Doug," Julianna Margulies once remarked, encapsulating the undeniable pull between their characters.
On-Screen Magic, Off-Screen Bond
The magic between Carol and Doug wasn't merely a product of good writing; it stemmed from the genuine connection between Julianna Margulies and George Clooney. Their chemistry was palpable, making every scene they shared crackle with intensity and emotion. This professional synergy fostered a deep personal friendship that has lasted for decades. Julianna Margulies and George Clooney will forever be linked to their ER characters, a fact that doesn't bother them in the slightest. In fact, after 30 years, Julianna Margulies revealed how she and George Clooney keep their 'ER' characters' bond alive off screen. Even when they weren’t together on the show, their characters were always connected, a testament to the powerful narrative established by their performances. This enduring bond is a rare and beautiful thing in the often-transient world of Hollywood.
Post-ER Success and Individual Journeys
While their time on ER cemented their places in television history, both Julianna Margulies and George Clooney have gone on to forge incredibly successful and diverse careers in the years since leaving County General. Their individual paths demonstrate their versatility and commitment to their craft, proving they were far more than just their beloved ER roles.
A Legacy of Excellence
George Clooney has consistently remained one of Hollywood's most prominent figures, transitioning seamlessly from a television heartthrob to an A-list movie star, acclaimed director, and influential producer. His filmography post-ER is extensive and impressive, including critically lauded performances in films like "Syriana" (for which he won an Oscar) and "Michael Clayton," as well as box office hits like the "Ocean's" franchise. He has also directed successful and critically praised films such as "Good Night, and Good Luck," showcasing his talent behind the camera. His presence at events like the 'Syriana' premiere in 2005 alongside Julianna Margulies highlighted their continued support for each other's work.
Julianna Margulies, too, has built an impressive career beyond ER. After a period of careful role selection, she returned to television with a bang, starring as Alicia Florrick in "The Good Wife." This role brought her widespread critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards, proving her ability to carry a complex drama as its lead. She has continued to appear in high-profile television series and stage productions, including her appearance on Broadway in "Left on Tenth" last year. Both stars have forged successful careers following their turns on ER, a testament to their talent and dedication.
Reunions and Philanthropy: Keeping the Bond Alive
Despite their busy schedules and separate career paths, the bond between Julianna Margulies and George Clooney, along with other ER cast members, has remained strong. They frequently participate in reunions and charitable initiatives, demonstrating that their connection goes beyond professional collaboration. These gatherings are not just nostalgic trips down memory lane for fans; they are genuine opportunities for the cast to reconnect and make a positive impact.
The Sweet Way They Keep ER Close
In recent years, fans have been delighted by several reunions involving the ER cast. For instance, former 'ER' stars George Clooney, Julianna Margulies, Anthony Edwards, and Noah Wyle all came together on Thursday, April 3, to celebrate the opening night of 'Good Night, and Good Luck,' the stage adaptation of Clooney's film. George Clooney and other stars from ER have reunited virtually to raise money for charity, showcasing their commitment to giving back. The special Earth Day episode — which streamed exclusively on People's social platforms — saw former cast members George Clooney (Doug Ross), Julianna Margulies (Carol Hathaway), and Noah Wyle among others, coming together. While 2024 marks 15 years since ER ended and the cast have gone on to do plenty of other projects, George Clooney and Julianna Margulies have found a sweet way to keep the show close to their hearts, often through these charitable endeavors and public appearances, like at the Golden Globes in 1996, WireImage, or the opening night afterparty for Good Night, and Good Luck on Broadway at the New York Public Library on April 03, 2025 (as per the provided text, indicating future or past event reference).
ER may have ended, but George Clooney and Julianna Margulies’ friendship will go on forever. This sentiment was echoed while speaking to the Television Academy in honor of the medical drama's 30th anniversary on Monday, where the enduring nature of their relationships was celebrated. Their continued connection is a heartwarming reminder of the powerful bonds formed during their time on the show.
Mutual Admiration and Respect
The relationship between Julianna Margulies and George Clooney is clearly built on a foundation of mutual respect and admiration. Margulies has often spoken highly of Clooney, not just as an actor but as a person and a professional. Margulies tells People she's really impressed Clooney will be starring in 'Good Night, and Good Luck' in 2025, a clear indication of her continued support and appreciation for his work. Similarly, Clooney has always acknowledged Margulies' talent and the crucial role she played in ER's success and his own journey. Their ability to maintain a strong, supportive friendship in an industry often characterized by fleeting connections speaks volumes about their character and the genuine bond they share. Julianna Margulies has nothing but praise for her former co-star, reflecting the deep respect that has characterized their friendship for decades. Their journey from the chaotic halls of County General to individual stardom and a lasting friendship serves as an inspiring narrative in the annals of Hollywood.
Conclusion
The story of Julianna Margulies and George Clooney is more than just a tale of two actors who starred in a hit show; it's a testament to the profound connections that can form in the creative process and endure long after the cameras stop rolling. From their fateful initial casting on ER, where Julianna Margulies' character was nearly written off, to their iconic on-screen romance as Carol Hathaway and Doug Ross, their chemistry was undeniable. This magic translated into a lasting off-screen friendship, characterized by mutual respect, support for each other's successful post-ER careers, and heartwarming reunions for charitable causes.
Their bond, which Julianna Margulies and George Clooney actively work to keep alive, serves as a beacon of genuine camaraderie in the entertainment industry. It reminds us why we fell in love with ER in the first place: not just for the medical drama, but for the authentic human connections at its core. What are your favorite memories of Carol and Doug, or Julianna and George's friendship? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this deep dive into their enduring legacy, be sure to explore our other articles on iconic television duos and the friendships that define Hollywood.
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Photo: julianna margulies george clooney photos 03 | Photo 4560479
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