Blair Underwood Discusses Changes to His Doctor Character in Season 3

Blair Underwood has made his return to Doc, but his character will experience an unexpected transformation — and there’s a specific reason behind this change.

In the season 3 premiere, which aired on Tuesday, September 22, Ben (Underwood) came back to Westside Hospital with a new appearance after choosing a more youthful look for his first day. Underwood, however, exclusively shared with Us that his decision to shave wasn’t tied to the storyline.

“I didn’t want to convey a different side of [him through his appearance],” Underwood, 63, explained. “I’m actually involved in another project that I can’t discuss at the moment. But it was essential that I be clean-shaven for that.”

Underwood expressed his gratitude to the production team for accommodating the change for Ben, saying, “Doc was very receptive to it. Their production company and all the producers said, ‘You know what? We love that you’re doing that, so we’ll work around it.’”

Ben was first introduced at the end of season 2 as someone from Amy’s (Molly Parker) past. Although Amy didn’t recall much about their shared history, viewers had a glimpse of a moment that confirmed Ben and Amy’s previous romance.

“I would describe Ben and Amy’s early relationship as very passionate and intense,” Underwood teased. “She’s now free and clear, which is crucial to know. This is after her divorce and before she connects with Jake.”

He added: “I can say they spent weekends together occasionally; it was sporadic, yet it was something they both enjoyed and kept wanting to repeat.”

Underwood mentioned that Ben “was there first” before Amy found love with Jake. After joining the cast, Underwood remembered being brought in on the fact that he would be part of a new love triangle.

“Honestly, I don’t think too much about it,” he told Us regarding his approach. “As someone stepping into an established show, I place my trust in the writers and producers. They know what they are doing. So I simply focus on my role, hit my marks, deliver my lines, and bring my contribution to it. Everything else is beyond my control.”

Underwood, who hasn’t yet completed filming half of the season 3 episodes, is looking forward to what lies ahead.

“I have most of the secrets. We’ve discussed the general arc of my character,” he recalled. “As for the details about all the secrets … I’m not sure. There’s still a long journey ahead.”

Doc airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on Fox.