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A Memorable Encounter: Noah Wyle Signs Autograph for Doctor Inspired by “ER”
Noah Wyle, renowned for his role in “The Pitt,” had a heartwarming experience during a recent visit to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. To his surprise, Wyle encountered a dedicated fan who also happens to be a physician—Dr. Brad Goldberg, who was inspired to pursue a career in medicine by Wyle’s character, John Carter, on the iconic drama “ER,” which aired on NBC for 11 years.
During their conversation, Dr. Goldberg made an unexpected request for Wyle’s autograph—not on a typical memorabilia piece, but rather on his medical board certification.
This touching moment occurred as Wyle and the cast of “The Pitt” participated in the annual Make March Matter fundraising initiative for the hospital.
Dr. Goldberg expressed gratitude towards the cast, noting, “I do think, you know, besides the entertainment factor, [“The Pitt”] brings a lot of attention to the work we do here, and the challenges we experience, and, you know, conveying that to the general public and all the issues in healthcare now, so thank you for that.”
As they continued their tour, Goldberg turned to Wyle and shared, “You’re a big part of me going into emergency, growing up my parents [watching “ER”].”
Wyle, embracing the moment with humor, replied, “Sorry for that.”
Goldberg then handed Wyle the important document, asking him to sign. Wyle’s astonishment was evident as he responded, “Holy smokes, are you kidding me?”
“This is my board certificate,” Dr. Goldberg clarified to the group. “This means more than coming from the actual board.”
As Wyle signed the certificate, he remarked, “Wow, this is a first for me.”
“Awesome, Brad,” someone said from the sidelines.
“American Board of Pediatrics,” Dr. Goldberg added before thanking Wyle personally, to which Wyle graciously responded, “It’s entirely my pleasure.”
Following the interaction, Dr. Goldberg shared the moment on social media, emphasizing the impact of Wyle’s portrayal of Dr. John Carter on his own medical journey. He wrote, “Thank you to the whole cast for highlighting our work. Very special shoutout to Noah Wyle, whose iconic Dr. John Carter on ER inspired my EM journey, he even signed my board certification! I’m finally official at PGY-12.”
For a glimpse into the heartfelt moment, Dr. Goldberg also included a photo of the signed certificate.
Hey that’s me! Thank you to the whole cast for highlighting our work. Very special shoutout to Noah Wyle, whose iconic Dr. John Carter on ER inspired my EM journey, he even signed my board certification! I’m finally official at PGY-12. pic.twitter.com/t1B8VPuD3X
— Brad Goldberg, MD (@BradGoldbergMD) March 28, 2025
Dr. Goldberg’s story not only underscores the lasting legacy of “ER” but also highlights the profound ways in which popular culture can inspire individuals to pursue meaningful careers in the medical field.
Source
www.thewrap.com