“Royal Pains” returns to USA just in time for summer

The cast of USA's "Royal Pains"

I had no idea until going through the press materials to write about the new season of Royal Pains that it ranks as USA Network’s No. 1 hit original series. Then it dawned on me that it makes complete sense. After all, the show has a unique premise, gorgeous scenery and one of the most underrated casts in all of television.

For those unfamiliar with Royal Pains — which returns tonight at 9pm ET — it revolves around a concierge doctor who discretely treats the upper-crust residents living in the Hamptons. Mark Feuerstein stars as Dr. Hank Lawson,  a former New York City ER doc who was unjustly fired and ultimately ended up starting his own private practice by the beach.  Helping him run the business were his brother Evan (Paulo Costanzo), his physician’s assistant Divya (Reshma Shetty) and the local hospital administrator Jill (Jill Flint).

But things began to unravel quickly at the end of last season after Hank and Evan got into a huge argument. Making matters more difficult, his on-again-off-again fling with Jill was in jeopardy when she announced she was leaving the Hamptons to pursue an adventure overseas. So here we are with the new season in which Hank is embarking on a a fresh start without his brother, who has started a business of his own.

In an episode entitled “After the Fireworks,” the HankMed team comes together one last time to provide medical support at a food-festival. It’s probably safe to say things are going to unravel quickly at the event, which can only bode well for keeping the group together.

And what fan of the show wouldn’t root for that? The chemistry that the four principle actors share is special to watch, whether it’s the heated exchanges between Hank and Evan, the flirtatious scenes with Hank and Jill, or the uncomfortable moments with Divya and Evan. (Things get even better when you factor in the great Henry Winkler as the father of the two brothers.)

It’s all these reasons that make it clear why this ranks as USA Network’s top-rated show. And it’s exactly why those who are not yet watching need to set their DVRs for the new season tonight. Stat!

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Credit: Quantrell D. Colbert/USA Network