Warning: SPOILERS ahead for The Pitt season 1, episode 15! In the season 1 finale of The Pitt, creator R. Scott Gemmill has shed some light on Dana’s (Katherine LaNasa) departure and its implications for her potential return in season 2. As the characters grapple with numerous challenges throughout their grueling day, most doctors remain determined to forge ahead, regardless of the circumstances. However, after Dana has a critical altercation with Doug Driscoll (Drew Powell), she begins to reassess her role within the team, ultimately opting to leave at the season’s conclusion. Her decision is underscored by her act of packing family photos, hinting at a significant farewell.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Gemmill clarified that Dana’s exit from The Pitt is intended to be a permanent decision. He pointed out that had season 2 commenced immediately following the finale, her absence would have been noticeable. It reflects the volatile nature of the medical profession, where circumstances can shift unexpectedly. Despite her commitment to her work, Gemmill believes that it would be challenging for Dana to remain away for an extended period, which paves the way for her potential return in the upcoming season. Below, you can see Gemmill’s thoughts on her exit:
Yeah, I was even thinking we should have had her flip him off, but that was the bridge too far. But I think Dana — I think the thing about this show is you should never get too comfortable with any one character because the nature of the business and the world is that life throws things at you unexpectedly and things can change in a heartbeat. So I think when Dana leaves, she’s very intent on leaving for good. That’s why she takes her photos. That’s why she doesn’t admit to Robby whether she’ll be back Monday. And I think she has to take some time and think about things. And I would guarantee if next season took place the next day that she wouldn’t be there. So when we do come back, we’ll have to see. But she’s a trooper and that place is her home and she’s kind of like the den mother. So I think it would be hard for her, difficult for her to stay away as well. But when she does come back, I imagine she would be a little bit different.
Implications of Gemmill’s Statement on Dana’s Future in The Pitt
Potential for Dana’s Return in Season 2
The first season of The Pitt culminates with Dana, feeling downhearted after the day’s tumultuous events, seeming poised to make a definitive exit. Her pivotal conversation with Robby (Noah Wyle), discussing his mentor Adamson, may suggest she is not quite ready to abandon her role altogether. According to Gemmill, however, Dana will require time to deliberate on her future steps. While she may be stepping away for the moment, it does not signify her permanent departure.
Regarding the anticipated details for season 2 of The Pitt, the new episodes are expected to premiere in January 2026. The storyline will revolve around a busy Fourth of July weekend, likely resulting in an unprecedented influx of patients and injuries for the medical team. If Dana does choose to return, her personal journey may hinge on her ability to rediscover her passion for her profession after everything that transpired in season 1.
Our Perspective on Dana’s Departure in The Pitt Season 1
Possible Scenarios for Dana’s Return in Season 2
Image via Max
Given Gemmill’s commentary indicating a possibility for Dana’s return in season 2, it appears that her departure from season 1 may not mark the end of her journey. Should she choose to come back, there are intriguing possibilities for her character arc. She might return in her professional capacity as a doctor, but a more compelling narrative could unfold if she isn’t fully prepared to recommit to her role just yet. Alternatively, in a different twist, season 2 might see Dana returning as a patient, allowing her to engage with the hospital setting while confronting her past challenges.
All episodes of The Pitt are now available for streaming on Max.
Source: EW