Doc was written out of “Third Watch” after suffering a debilitating stroke, which led to his retirement from the EMS.
In the TV series “Third Watch,” which aired from 1999 to 2005, the character Monte “Doc” Parker, played by Michael Beach, is a senior paramedic with the fictional 55th Precinct’s EMS unit. Doc is portrayed as a dedicated and compassionate paramedic, often acting as a mentor to the younger staff.
As the series progresses, Doc faces numerous personal and professional challenges. His character arc reaches a critical point in the fourth season when he begins to show signs of mental instability, stemming from the cumulative stress of his job and personal losses, including the death of his partner Jerry (played by Bill Walsh).
In the fifth season, Doc’s storyline culminates when he suffers a stroke while on duty. This event marks a significant turning point for the character, as it leaves him with severe physical and cognitive impairments. The stroke storyline is used to explore the themes of vulnerability and the impact of long-term stress on first responders.
Following his stroke, Doc is forced to confront the reality of his condition. He struggles with the limitations imposed by his disability and the changes in his life. Despite his efforts to recover and return to work, it becomes clear that he is no longer able to perform his duties as a paramedic.
Ultimately, Doc’s character is retired from the show, and his departure is handled with a focus on the emotional and psychological toll that a career in emergency services can take on individuals. His exit from “Third Watch” serves as a poignant reminder of the human side of those who work in high-stress, life-and-death professions.