ER Director Reflects on the Episode That Launched George Clooney’s Career

On November 9, 1995, NBC premiered “Hell and High Water,” an influential episode of the medical drama ER that played a crucial role in launching George Clooney’s career. As we approach the 30th anniversary of this notable installment, director Christopher Chulack shares insights into its production and the impact it had on Clooney’s trajectory in the entertainment industry.

The Impact of “Hell and High Water”

“Hell and High Water” centers around Clooney’s character, Dr. Doug Ross, as he attempts to rescue a young boy trapped in a storm drain during a severe storm. Chulack, who received an Emmy nomination for directing this episode, emphasizes how meticulously planned the production was.

• Episode Air Date: November 9, 1995
• Viewership: The episode attracted 45 million viewers, marking it as the highest-rated show of that week.
• Emmy Nominations: The episode earned six nominations at the 48th Primetime Emmy Awards.

George Clooney’s Rise to Stardom

Before “Hell and High Water,” Clooney was primarily recognized for roles in series like “The Facts of Life” and “Roseanne.” However, this episode transformed him into a household name. Chulack recalls a significant moment when Warner Bros. executives approached Clooney immediately after the episode aired.

Chulack recounted, “Bob Daley and Terry Semel, the presidents of Warner Bros. Television, came to George’s dressing room and said, ‘You’re going to be the next Batman because of the heroism of that episode.’” This announcement marked a turning point in Clooney’s acting career.

From ER to Batman

Clooney became the sixth actor to portray the iconic character Bruce Wayne/Batman, following in the footsteps of notable actors including Michael Keaton and Adam West. He starred in the 1997 film “Batman & Robin,” which was a departure from previous dark interpretations. The film aimed for a more light-hearted and commercial tone to drive toy sales, which ultimately received poor reviews and is often considered one of the worst Batman films.

Legacy of a Pivotal Episode

The influence of “Hell and High Water” continues to resonate, not just for its thrilling storyline, but also for its role in shaping Clooney’s career. Fans of ER can revisit this iconic episode by streaming it on HBO Max or Hulu.