As a whole, The Pitt is as close to perfect as a show can get. But while certain matters are debatable and open to interpretation, the characterization of Taylor Dearden’s Mel King feels like the one character viewers can universally agree on. The show wouldn’t be what it is without her and her beautifully moving sensitivity.
Kind and sunshine-like characters aren’t exactly rare on TV, but it’s how The Pitt draws attention to Mel’s heart that showcases the importance of identifying the value of sensitive people. We see it first when Dr. Langdon recognizes it in Season 1, Episode 9, “3:00 PM,” and then we see it once more when Dr. Robby tells her she’s awesome in Season 1, Episode 14, “7:00 PM.” These two scenes aren’t similar in context, yet they both do a considerably brilliant job of acknowledging Mel’s strength.
As mentioned in one of our previous articles, “Ask the most sensitive person you know what’s the one thing countless people have said to them regarding their sensitivity. Ask them what words make them flinch and how hearing it can sometimes cause such a visceral reaction that it makes the whole thing worse. The people who hold a plethora in because they’ll do anything to avoid those words, so instead, we do everything in our power to prevent them. If you haven’t guessed by now, the words are some variation of “You’re too sensitive.” In addition to this detail, Dearden has spoken about the character’s neurodivergence, as well as her own, which in turn allows so many more people to see themselves represented on our screens.
Romance novels in particular do an excellent job these days of exploring how neurodivergence isn’t a weakness or a hindrance in someone’s life, so the sheer fact that a now massively popular series is also putting this reminder center stage is a big deal.
In a world where wrongfully chosen “officials” are attempting to argue that autism is a disease, it’s beyond admirable that a series like The Pitt is actively fighting against this horrific idea with the truth. Neurodivergent people aren’t weak or less than others. Sensitive people aren’t incapable of doing things right just because they’re simultaneously in tune with their emotions and they feel the need to cry. The only reason so many of us ultimately feel so frustrated by our sensitivity is because people have consistently tried to belittle us. Our apologies become armor, not because we believe we’re incapable, but because we want to show that we aren’t. No one should have to apologize for feeling their emotions, yet countless people—women in particular—always do.
The idea that crying is childish or a sign of weakness is so wildly inappropriate, but it also contributes to the toxic masculinity that’s upheld by the patriarchy and drives wedges between humanity in multiple matters. Yet, with a character like Mel King, people are finding themselves represented through someone who isn’t belittled, but someone who’s greatly treasured. She’s earned her place in this hospital because she’s studied to stand where she does. When she aches and breaks and feels for a patient, she isn’t exposing a weakness, but she’s revealing her superpower. Empathy isn’t something to condemn, no matter what a person’s job is. The lack of—now, that’s a different story.
Still, it’s so utterly inspiring and profoundly comforting that viewers can watch a show where a big-hearted character is revered because of how deeply she cares. It’s inspiring that maybe, just maybe, someone watching the show can finally understand why people get frustrated when they’re about to cry. As human beings, we are our own worst critics, and when we’re planted in a space where people are consistently picking apart everything we do, it makes it ten times harder to grow. And yet, we do.
The most sensitive person you know has likely risen above matters that could’ve completely shattered them. The most sensitive person you know has tried ten times harder to make sure they’ve earned their spot in their respective careers. A neurodivergent person has earned every position they’ve upheld, and they’ve fought twice as hard to prove themselves, even when they have the same qualifications as their neurotypical neighbor.
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In a high-stakes environment where skillsets are quite literally imperative to saving lives, women like Mel King and Samira Mohan prove that their empathy is the very reason they’re great doctors. The show’s means of openly allowing these women to shine, be vulnerable, and vocalize their frustrations is exactly why people are finding themselves represented in an authentic manner. People, in some capacity, are also finding themselves feeling a little less alone. If a show like The Pitt could continue reiterating that strength isn’t measured by how well someone is able to compartmentalize, then maybe someday, a new generation of people can grasp the nuances that make up humanity and our feelings.
Softness isn’t something to frown upon. It’s something to appreciate. It’s a strength. And quite frankly, I’ll never get tired of acknowledging how Mel King’s superpower is her sensitivity.
First Featured Image Credit: ©Max