Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald Real Friends Classic: 203 - My Case Study With Ken Jenkins
May 20, 2025
This week features Ken Jenkins, beloved for his role as Dr. Bob Kelso on Scrubs, sharing insights from his extensive acting career. They dive into memorable performances, exploring how character growth has shaped their views and deepened connections. The conversation is peppered with nostalgic stories about celebrity basketball games, adding a comedic twist. Furthermore, they touch on the emotional impact of small acts of kindness within the workplace and emphasize the importance of therapy, blending humor with meaningful discussions on personal growth.
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Reading Big Books Aloud Together
- Ken Jenkins and his wife read big books aloud to each other during isolation, including Vanity Fair and Moby Dick.
- They believe few others have read Moby Dick out loud together, finding the activity romantic and bonding.
Kelso's Emotional Rind Development
- Kelso, as chief of medicine, developed a tough exterior, crusting over his feelings to function.
- This rind allowed him to deal with constant hospital challenges and keep going without breaking down emotionally.
Audition and Pilot Acting Anecdote
- Ken Jenkins auditioned with the series creator Bill Lawrence laughing at his reading, signaling he had a chance.
- Jenkins disliked his pilot performance but was told his over-the-top acting reflected J.D.'s view of Kelso, not reality.