Medical shows have long been a staple of prime time television, as the life and death stakes
combined with the toll the job takes on doctors and nurses can make for gripping drama. Shows
such as "ER", "House," and "Grey's Anatomy" have all highlighted the heartache and humanity
at the core of every healthcare emergency.
Tragically, though, for the hit series "New Amsterdam," the medical drama has become all
too real, resulting in the sudden and shocking departure of one of its biggest stars.
Airing on NBC, "New Amsterdam" follows the travails of a new medical director and the
head of several hospital departments at America's oldest public hospital as they try to move
past stifling bureaucracy to keep the focus on patients. The hit show is based on the
book Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital by Eric Manheimer.
The all-star ensemble cast of the show includes performers such as Ryan Eggold, Freema Agyeman,
and Tyler Labine in the main cast.
But one of the most important stars was luminary Indian performer Anupam Kher. Kher, who is
best known to American audiences for his role in "Silver Linings Playbook," is one of India's
most famous actors, having appeared in more than 500 films.
On "New Amsterdam," Kher played Dr. Vijay Kapoor, who was the focal point of a major
storyline in Season 3 after the character contracted COVID-19 and disappeared into isolation
in the season's second episode.
Much of the early part of the season then revolved around his illness and the attempts
by the hospital staff to ensure he survives and regains his health. However, in the season's
seventh episode, which aired April 13, the staff was shocked to learn that Dr. Kapoor
would not be returning to New Amsterdam hospital at all, as he instead resigned.
"Vijay's doctor told him that he's never going to work again. About a month ago."
As surprised as the characters on the show were, fans were even more surprised to learn
that Kher was actually leaving the show for good - and had been written out at his own
request.
Why? Sadly, the answer is even more tragic than any plotline on "New Amsterdam."
Anupam Kher's wife, Kirron Kher, is a well-known performer and politician in her own right.
On April 1, 2021, Anupam Kher revealed on Twitter that his wife had been diagnosed with
multiple myeloma, which is also known as Kahler's disease. Multiple myeloma is a rare type of
blood cancer that affects plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in bone marrow.
Unfortunately, there is as yet no known cure for multiple myeloma, but with early detection
and treatment it can potentially become dormant for long periods of time.
Anupam Kher's statement, which was made in conjunction with his son, Sikandar, reads
in part.
"She is currently undergoing treatment and we are sure she will come out of this stronger
than before. We are very blessed that she is being looked after by a phenomenal set
of doctors. She's always been a fighter and takes things head on. She's all heart and
that's why she has so many people that love her. So keep sending your love to her in your
prayers and in your heart."
Two weeks later, TV Insider reported that Kher's departure from "New Amsterdam" would
be permanent, and on April 27, Kher tweeted another statement to fans, reflecting on his
time as Dr. Vijay Kapoor on "New Amsterdam."
"This past year has been difficult for so many people around the world, not least for
Dr. Kapoor. It was an incredibly special time for me to be part of this show and one I will
never forget. The New Amsterdam family will always hold a special place in my heart. I
am grateful to the audience for their love, support, and good wishes, particularly for
my wife, Kirron, at this time. I hope you all will continue to join me on my journey
and future projects."
Here's wishing the whole Kher family the best of luck.
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