A Quick Chat with Don Hany

Don Hany is back in scrubs.

The actor, who caused hearts to flutter on Offspring as Dr Chris Havel, plays another compelling physician, Dr Jessie Shane, on Universal Channel's medical drama Heartbeat (airing Thursdays at 8:30 PM).

Don Hany in Heartbeat. Photo: NBC

"I always wanted to study medicine, but I never got the marks to go into medical school," admits Hany, 40. "I've been asked before whether I'm worried I keep playing doctors, and while it's an occupational hazard, I've got to say it's got to be one of the most enjoyable professions to play. I couldn't be luckier."

Heartbeat is based on the real-life journey of heart surgeon Kathy Magliato, played on the series by Australian actress Melissa George as the gutsy and outspoken. Dr Alex Panttiere. Hany's Dr Shane is based on Magliato's real-life mentor but in the world of television, he's become younger, romantic, and Australian.

Don Hany in Heartbeat. photo: NBC

"We've made more of a renaissance with this guy," Hany says, "more cut from the same cloth as Alex. He feels about the empirical nature of medicine, and he's always pushing the envelope. That's why the two of them get on so well. They're always on the hunt for the next surgical challenge."

Hany adds with a laugh about playing a cardiothoracic surgeon, "like heart transplant surgeons and neurosurgeons, they are typical of the door-knock doctors, right? Because on their rounds, they always have their hand on the doorknob because they literally don't have the time to be there!"

To hear more from Hany about life in LA and playing opposite Melissa George, pick up this week's issue of WHO, on newsstands now.