Cast of Pulse on Netflix: Meet the Stars Behind the Medical Drama
Netflix’s Pulse (2025) dives deep into the fast-paced world of trauma medicine, office politics, and emotional recovery—all unfolding in Miami’s Maguire Medical Center, the city’s busiest Level 1 trauma center. With dramatic tension, personal conflict, and a fresh ensemble cast, this gripping medical drama balances heart-pounding emergencies with equally intense relationships.
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Meet the Cast of Pulse on Netflix
Created by Zoe Robyn and executive produced by Carlton Cuse, Pulse follows the life and leadership of Dr. Danielle “Danny” Simms as she navigates hospital chaos, power dynamics, and her own personal trauma. Let’s take a look at the cast that brings this emotionally-charged series to life.
What Is Netflix’s Pulse About?
At the heart of Pulse is Dr. Danny Simms, a third-year resident who becomes interim chief after filing a sexual harassment complaint against her ex-boyfriend and former supervisor, Dr. Xander Phillips. As she steps into leadership, Danny must earn the respect of her peers, handle trauma cases, and rebuild trust in herself.
Pulse mixes emergency room thrills with sharp character drama, tackling themes of accountability, gender dynamics, and resilience. With the help (and resistance) of her colleagues, Danny tries to hold it all together—one shift at a time.
The Main Cast of Pulse (2025)
Willa Fitzgerald as Dr. Danny Simms
Willa Fitzgerald leads the series as Dr. Danielle “Danny” Simms. Viewers may recognize her from Reacher, Scream: The TV Series, and Dare Me. In Pulse, she plays a rising medical leader balancing intense pressure and deep emotional wounds. Her performance adds both vulnerability and authority to the series’ central arc.
Colin Woodell as Dr. Xander Phillips
Colin Woodell brings both charisma and conflict to the role of Dr. Xander Phillips. Known for The Flight Attendant and The Purge, Woodell portrays the talented but toxic surgeon whose past with Danny threatens to fracture the entire department. His layered portrayal raises tough questions about power and accountability.
Justina Machado as Dr. Natalie Cruz
As veteran trauma doctor Dr. Natalie Cruz, Justina Machado grounds the series with warmth and wisdom. Best known for her roles in One Day at a Time and Jane the Virgin, Machado plays the moral center of the hospital—both firm and fiercely protective of her team.
Jessie T. Usher as Dr. Sam Elijah
Jessie T. Usher (The Boys, Survivor’s Remorse) plays Dr. Sam Elijah, a cool-headed ER doc with strong values and quiet strength. He becomes one of Danny’s most trusted allies, often serving as the glue during emotionally high-stakes moments.
Daniela Nieves as Camila Perez
Daniela Nieves, known for Fate: The Winx Saga and Every Witch Way, plays medical intern Camila Perez. Bright-eyed and book smart, Camila’s arc explores mentorship, identity, and the pressures of rising through the ranks.
Jack Bannon as Dr. Tom Cole
British actor Jack Bannon (Pennyworth) steps in as Dr. Tom Cole, a charming resident with hidden insecurities. Bannon’s mix of confidence and subtle vulnerability gives the role unexpected depth.
Chelsea Muirhead as Sophie Chan
Chelsea Muirhead (Warrior) portrays Sophie Chan, an ambitious trauma nurse caught between patient care and hospital politics. She’s sharp, assertive, and isn’t afraid to challenge authority when necessary.
Jessy Yates as Harper Simms
Jessy Yates brings authenticity and emotion to the role of Harper Simms, Danny’s sibling. Yates is a disability inclusion advocate, and their casting adds another layer of representation to the show’s narrative tapestry.
Néstor Carbonell as Dr. Ruben Soriano
Veteran actor Néstor Carbonell (Lost, The Morning Show) plays Dr. Ruben Soriano, the hospital’s steely chief of surgery. His presence commands the screen as a complex leader balancing legacy, pressure, and personal secrets.
Character Dynamics That Drive the Drama
Pulse succeeds largely because of the strong dynamics between its cast members. Whether it’s the tension between Danny and Xander, or the mentorship bonds between Natalie and her staff, the interpersonal relationships elevate the story. Each character carries their own emotional scars, secrets, and motivations—making even the quietest moments feel loaded.
Behind the Scenes: Pulse Production Team
- Zoe Robyn (Creator & Showrunner): Previously known for her work on Queen Sugar and The Equalizer, Robyn brings a sharp eye for character-focused storytelling and inclusive representation to Pulse. She has spoken about her goal to highlight the untold stories of female doctors navigating both career and personal trauma.
- Carlton Cuse (Executive Producer): A renowned showrunner behind iconic hits like Lost, Bates Motel, and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Cuse lends his expertise in ensemble drama and high-stakes narratives. His involvement ensures a high production standard and compelling episodic arcs.
- Sally Sue Beisel (Medical Advisor): Beisel, a real-life trauma surgeon, worked closely with the writers and directors to ensure accurate portrayals of emergency medicine procedures and the emotional toll of the profession.
- Directorial Team: The first season featured a rotating team of directors including Jennifer Morrison (Dr. Death, Euphoria) and Jon Avnet (Justified), bringing a dynamic mix of dramatic flair and grounded intensity to the series’ visual tone.
- Writers Room Diversity: The Pulse writers’ room was purposefully built with a diverse mix of voices—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled writers—reflecting the show’s goal to represent modern healthcare teams authentically on and off-screen.
- Zoe Robyn (Creator): Writer of Queen Sugar and The Equalizer, known for crafting character-driven drama.
- Carlton Cuse (Executive Producer): Veteran showrunner from Lost and Jack Ryan, bringing prestige and structure to the series.
- Real medical professionals served as consultants to maintain accuracy in trauma care sequences.
Early Reviews and Fan Buzz
Critics have compared Pulse to Grey’s Anatomy, noting its blend of personal drama and hospital adrenaline. While some reviews—like Vanity Fair’s—say it “feels AI-generated,” others praise its emotional weight and diverse cast.
Audiences have praised Willa Fitzgerald’s commanding performance, while others highlight the importance of the show’s timely workplace dynamics and inclusive casting.
FAQs About the Cast of Pulse on Netflix
Willa Fitzgerald stars as the lead character, bringing grit and heart to the series.
The show was created by Zoe Robyn, with executive production by Carlton Cuse.
He’s appeared in The Flight Attendant, Ambulance, and The Purge series.
No, Maguire Medical Center is fictional, but it draws inspiration from real trauma centers.
Season 1 consists of 10 episodes, all streaming now on Netflix.
Visit the official Netflix page or the Pulse IMDb listing for more.
Final Thoughts: Why the Cast of Pulse Makes It Worth Watching
With emotional weight, timely themes, and a stellar ensemble, Pulse delivers a modern medical drama that feels raw and relevant. Whether you’re tuning in for the hospital thrills or the layered character arcs, the cast of Pulse is what truly makes the show pulse with life.
If you’re a fan of character-driven drama and complex relationships, this cast delivers—scalpel and all.
