TV & Movies

St. Denis Medical Stars Speak Out About Matt and Serena’s Kiss

St. Denis Medical is gearing up for an exhilarating season finale, starting with an unexpected kiss.

In the upcoming penultimate episode airing on Monday, March 30, Matt (Mekki Leeper) and Serena (Kahyun Kim) elevate their relationship, sharing with Us Weekly the “pressure” stemming from offscreen audience interest.

“I was quite anxious. Us, the writers, and everyone involved in the show has been meticulous about crafting a believable and fulfilling storyline,” Leeper and Kim commented on the effort to create a fictional “relationship people root for.”

The two stars were excited to support one another throughout the process.

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“He’s such a generous scene partner. Engaging in something as intimate as developing a storyline requires a lot of trust,” Kim shared. “Especially with intimate moments, I have deep trust in him.”

Leeper echoed Kim’s sentiments, saying, “These scenes can be challenging to pull off. It’s reassuring to perform alongside someone who is also a friend.”

St. Denis Medical, which debuted in 2024, showcases the struggles of overworked doctors and nurses trying to care for patients at a poorly funded hospital in Oregon. The mockumentary features not only Leeper, 31, and Kim, 36, but also Wendi McLendon-Covey, David Alan Grier, Allison Tolman, and Kaliko Kauahi.

NBC

From the moment the series premiered, audiences noticed the palpable chemistry between Matt and Serena. Creator Eric Ledgin hasn’t dismissed the possibility of a romance between the characters but hinted to Us that it will develop gradually.

“There’s certainly at least a one-sided will-they-or-won’t-they scenario,” he teased to Us in November 2024. “So, expect a slow burn that we’ll continue to explore over time.”

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“Just like any real relationship, it takes time to get to know each other,” Leeper shared exclusively with Us in November 2025. “There are some starts and stops along the way.”

Leeper also hinted at Matt’s mindset, stating, “He’s trying not to appear desperate and to maintain a cool demeanor. Sometimes, stepping back for a season is necessary.” He appreciates that their romance isn’t typical of a classic sitcom.

“They both have their quirks. If they weren’t involved, they’d still be two fascinating characters. It’s refreshing that we can embrace our eccentricities together,” Leeper added.

Kim, for her part, hinted at even more surprises as the season progresses.

“There are plenty of developments in season 2,” she noted. “It’s full of ups and downs, definitely evolving into something unique and captivating.”

St. Denis Medical airs on NBC on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Peacock.