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# Cast of Pulse on Netflix: Meet the Stars Behind the Medical Drama
- URL: https://www.ourfamilylifestyle.com/cast-of-pulse-on-netflix/
- Published: 2025-04-12T14:32:21.000Z
- Updated: 2026-01-16T20:21:29.000Z
- Description: Explore the dynamic cast of Pulse and how they shape the intense medical drama set in Miami's Maguire Medical Center.
- Author: Staci Salazar
- Tags: Entertainment

Netflix's *Pulse* (2025) dives deep into the fast-paced world of trauma medicine, office politics, and emotional recovery—all unfolding in Miami's Maguire Medical Center, the city's busiest Level 1 trauma center. With dramatic tension, personal conflict, and a fresh ensemble cast, this gripping medical drama balances heart-pounding emergencies with equally intense relationships.

## Table of contents

- [Meet the Cast of Pulse on Netflix](#h-meet-the-cast-of-pulse-on-netflix)
- [What Is Netflix’s Pulse About?](#h-what-is-netflix-s-pulse-about)
- [The Main Cast of Pulse (2025)](#h-the-main-cast-of-pulse-2025)
  - [Willa Fitzgerald as Dr. Danny Simms](#h-willa-fitzgerald-as-dr-danny-simms)
  - [Colin Woodell as Dr. Xander Phillips](#h-colin-woodell-as-dr-xander-phillips)
  - [Justina Machado as Dr. Natalie Cruz](#h-justina-machado-as-dr-natalie-cruz)
  - [Jessie T. Usher as Dr. Sam Elijah](#h-jessie-t-usher-as-dr-sam-elijah)
  - [Daniela Nieves as Camila Perez](#h-daniela-nieves-as-camila-perez)
  - [Jack Bannon as Dr. Tom Cole](#h-jack-bannon-as-dr-tom-cole)
  - [Chelsea Muirhead as Sophie Chan](#h-chelsea-muirhead-as-sophie-chan)
  - [Jessy Yates as Harper Simms](#h-jessy-yates-as-harper-simms)
  - [Néstor Carbonell as Dr. Ruben Soriano](#h-nestor-carbonell-as-dr-ruben-soriano)
- [Character Dynamics That Drive the Drama](#h-character-dynamics-that-drive-the-drama)
- [Behind the Scenes: Pulse Production Team](#h-behind-the-scenes-pulse-production-team)
- [Early Reviews and Fan Buzz](#h-early-reviews-and-fan-buzz)
- [FAQs About the Cast of Pulse on Netflix](#h-faqs-about-the-cast-of-pulse-on-netflix)
- [Final Thoughts: Why the Cast of Pulse Makes It Worth Watching](#h-final-thoughts-why-the-cast-of-pulse-makes-it-worth-watching)

## Meet the Cast of Pulse on Netflix

Created by **Zoe Robyn** and executive produced by **Carlton Cuse**, *Pulse* follows the life and leadership of Dr. Danielle “Danny” Simms as she navigates hospital chaos, power dynamics, and her own personal trauma. Let’s take a look at the cast that brings this emotionally-charged series to life.

## **What Is Netflix’s Pulse About?**

At the heart of *Pulse* is **Dr. Danny Simms**, a third-year resident who becomes interim chief after filing a sexual harassment complaint against her ex-boyfriend and former supervisor, **Dr. Xander Phillips**. As she steps into leadership, Danny must earn the respect of her peers, handle trauma cases, and rebuild trust in herself.

*Pulse* mixes emergency room thrills with sharp character drama, tackling themes of accountability, gender dynamics, and resilience. With the help (and resistance) of her colleagues, Danny tries to hold it all together—one shift at a time.

![Willa Fitzgerald and Colin Woodell share a quiet, emotional moment as their characters Dr. Danny Simms and Dr. Xander Phillips.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/04/b6/04b60537-dad4-499b-b73c-0551021827f5/content/images/2026/01/willa-fitzgerald-and-colin-woodell-share-a-quiet-emotional-moment-as-their-characters-dr-danny-simms-and-dr-xander-phillips-3.jpg)

## **The Main Cast of Pulse (2025)**

### **Willa Fitzgerald as Dr. Danny Simms**

Willa Fitzgerald leads the series as Dr. Danielle "Danny" Simms. Viewers may recognize her from *Reacher*, *Scream: The TV Series*, and *Dare Me*. In *Pulse*, she plays a rising medical leader balancing intense pressure and deep emotional wounds. Her performance adds both vulnerability and authority to the series’ central arc.

### **Colin Woodell as Dr. Xander Phillips**

Colin Woodell brings both charisma and conflict to the role of Dr. Xander Phillips. Known for *The Flight Attendant* and *The Purge*, Woodell portrays the talented but toxic surgeon whose past with Danny threatens to fracture the entire department. His layered portrayal raises tough questions about power and accountability.

### **Justina Machado as Dr. Natalie Cruz**

As veteran trauma doctor Dr. Natalie Cruz, Justina Machado grounds the series with warmth and wisdom. Best known for her roles in *One Day at a Time* and *Jane the Virgin*, Machado plays the moral center of the hospital—both firm and fiercely protective of her team.

### **Jessie T. Usher as Dr. Sam Elijah**

Jessie T. Usher (*The Boys*, *Survivor’s Remorse*) plays Dr. Sam Elijah, a cool-headed ER doc with strong values and quiet strength. He becomes one of Danny’s most trusted allies, often serving as the glue during emotionally high-stakes moments.

### **Daniela Nieves as Camila Perez**

Daniela Nieves, known for *Fate: The Winx Saga* and *Every Witch Way*, plays medical intern Camila Perez. Bright-eyed and book smart, Camila’s arc explores mentorship, identity, and the pressures of rising through the ranks.

### **Jack Bannon as Dr. Tom Cole**

British actor Jack Bannon (*Pennyworth*) steps in as Dr. Tom Cole, a charming resident with hidden insecurities. Bannon’s mix of confidence and subtle vulnerability gives the role unexpected depth.

### **Chelsea Muirhead as Sophie Chan**

Chelsea Muirhead (*Warrior*) portrays Sophie Chan, an ambitious trauma nurse caught between patient care and hospital politics. She’s sharp, assertive, and isn’t afraid to challenge authority when necessary.

### **Jessy Yates as Harper Simms**

Jessy Yates brings authenticity and emotion to the role of Harper Simms, Danny’s sibling. Yates is a disability inclusion advocate, and their casting adds another layer of representation to the show’s narrative tapestry.

### **Néstor Carbonell as Dr. Ruben Soriano**

Veteran actor Néstor Carbonell (*Lost*, *The Morning Show*) plays Dr. Ruben Soriano, the hospital’s steely chief of surgery. His presence commands the screen as a complex leader balancing legacy, pressure, and personal secrets.

![Cast of Pulse on Netflix surrounding a trauma patient under operating room lights.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/04/b6/04b60537-dad4-499b-b73c-0551021827f5/content/images/2026/01/cast-of-pulse-on-netflix-surrounding-a-trauma-patient-under-operating-room-lights-3.jpg)

## **Character Dynamics That Drive the Drama**

*Pulse* succeeds largely because of the strong dynamics between its cast members. Whether it’s the tension between Danny and Xander, or the mentorship bonds between Natalie and her staff, the interpersonal relationships elevate the story. Each character carries their own emotional scars, secrets, and motivations—making even the quietest moments feel loaded.

## **Behind the Scenes: Pulse Production Team**

- **Zoe Robyn** (Creator & Showrunner): Previously known for her work on *Queen Sugar* and *The Equalizer*, Robyn brings a sharp eye for character-focused storytelling and inclusive representation to *Pulse*. She has spoken about her goal to highlight the untold stories of female doctors navigating both career and personal trauma.
- **Carlton Cuse** (Executive Producer): A renowned showrunner behind iconic hits like *Lost*, *Bates Motel*, and *Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan*, Cuse lends his expertise in ensemble drama and high-stakes narratives. His involvement ensures a high production standard and compelling episodic arcs.
- **Sally Sue Beisel** (Medical Advisor): Beisel, a real-life trauma surgeon, worked closely with the writers and directors to ensure accurate portrayals of emergency medicine procedures and the emotional toll of the profession.
- **Directorial Team:** The first season featured a rotating team of directors including **Jennifer Morrison** (*Dr. Death*, *Euphoria*) and **Jon Avnet** (*Justified*), bringing a dynamic mix of dramatic flair and grounded intensity to the series' visual tone.
- **Writers Room Diversity:** The *Pulse* writers' room was purposefully built with a diverse mix of voices—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled writers—reflecting the show's goal to represent modern healthcare teams authentically on and off-screen.
- **Zoe Robyn** (Creator): Writer of *Queen Sugar* and *The Equalizer*, known for crafting character-driven drama.
- **Carlton Cuse** (Executive Producer): Veteran showrunner from *Lost* and *Jack Ryan*, bringing prestige and structure to the series.
- Real medical professionals served as consultants to maintain accuracy in trauma care sequences.

## **Early Reviews and Fan Buzz**

Critics have compared *Pulse* to [*Grey’s Anatomy*](https://ourfamilylifestyle.com/dream-house-greys-anatomy/), noting its blend of personal drama and hospital adrenaline. While some reviews—like Vanity Fair’s—say it “feels AI-generated,” others praise its emotional weight and diverse cast.

Audiences have praised Willa Fitzgerald’s commanding performance, while others highlight the importance of the show’s timely workplace dynamics and inclusive casting.

## **FAQs About the Cast of Pulse on Netflix**

**Who plays Dr. Danny Simms in Pulse?**

Willa Fitzgerald stars as the lead character, bringing grit and heart to the series. **Who created Netflix’s Pulse?**

The show was created by Zoe Robyn, with executive production by Carlton Cuse. **What other shows has Colin Woodell been in?**

He’s appeared in *The Flight Attendant*, *Ambulance*, and *The Purge* series. **Is Pulse based on a real hospital?**

No, Maguire Medical Center is fictional, but it draws inspiration from real trauma centers. **How many episodes are in Season 1?**

Season 1 consists of 10 episodes, all streaming now on Netflix. **Where can I learn more about the cast and show?**

Visit the [official Netflix page](https://www.netflix.com/title/81498229) or the [Pulse IMDb listing](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23868692/) for more.

![Willa Fitzgerald as Dr. Danny Simms stands confidently in blue scrubs during a tense moment in Pulse.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/04/b6/04b60537-dad4-499b-b73c-0551021827f5/content/images/2026/01/willa-fitzgerald-as-dr-danny-simms-stands-confidently-in-blue-scrubs-during-a-tense-moment-in-pulse-3.jpg)

## **Final Thoughts: Why the Cast of Pulse Makes It Worth Watching**

With emotional weight, timely themes, and a stellar ensemble, *Pulse* delivers a modern medical drama that feels raw and relevant. Whether you're tuning in for the hospital thrills or the layered character arcs, the **cast of Pulse** is what truly makes the show pulse with life.

If you're a fan of character-driven drama and complex relationships, this cast delivers—scalpel and all.