Few shows have achieved the level of cultural impact that House, M.D. managed during its run. With its razor-sharp writing, compelling medical mysteries, and Hugh Laurie’s unforgettable portrayal of the titular doctor, the series redefined the genre. But what went on behind the scenes? Here are some lesser-known but intriguing facts about the show that even diehard fans might not know.
1. House Was a Global Sensation
By 2008, just four years after its debut, House M.D. had become the most-watched TV drama in the world, drawing 81.8 million viewers globally. It surpassed other hit shows of its time, like Desperate Housewives. The combination of Gregory House’s brilliance and the show’s intense storytelling made it a universal favorite.
2. The Name Had Hidden Meanings
The show’s title wasn’t just a clever nod to its main character — it had roots in medical slang. Doctors often use the term 'HOUSE' as an acronym for 'history of use', referring to a patient’s history of substance abuse. This is a perfect fit for Dr. Gregory House, whose Vicodin addiction was a cornerstone of his character. Interestingly, the show’s working title, Chasing Zebras, Circling the Drain, also came from medical jargon: 'zebras' refer to rare diagnoses, while 'circling the drain' describes terminal patients.
3. Sherlock Holmes in a Lab Coat
Dr. House wasn’t just a brilliant diagnostician — he was modeled after Sherlock Holmes. From his address at 221B to his struggle with addiction, the parallels to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective were intentional. Even side characters played into the homage: Dr. James Wilson mirrored Dr. John Watson, Rebecca Adler was named after Holmes’ adversary Irene Adler, and a shooter named Jack Moriarty — House’s nemesis — echoed the infamous Professor Moriarty.
4. Dr. Kutner’s Shocking Exit
Dr. Lawrence Kutner, played by Kal Penn, left fans heartbroken when his character died by suicide in season 5. The reason behind the sudden departure was Penn’s real-life decision to leave acting temporarily for politics. He took on a role in the Obama Administration, serving as Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Liaison.
5. Hugh Laurie’s Personal Inspiration
Hugh Laurie revealed that he based much of Dr. House’s demeanor on his late father, Ran Laurie, who was a British physician and Olympic gold medalist. While House’s abrasive nature was fictional, Laurie’s father was a kind-hearted and compassionate doctor. Hugh once admitted feeling guilty about earning more as a 'fake' doctor than his father had as a real one.
6. Hugh Laurie Didn’t Think House Was the Star
When Hugh Laurie auditioned for the role, he initially believed Dr. James Wilson was the main character. Laurie doubted that someone as difficult and abrasive as House could carry an entire series. Of course, his portrayal of House proved to be one of television’s most iconic performances.
7. Why 'Teardrop' Was Chosen as the Theme Song
The haunting theme song, 'Teardrop' by Massive Attack, was chosen for its hypnotic beat, which resembles the rhythm of a human heartbeat. Though it doesn’t appear until the ninth episode of the first season, its presence became synonymous with the show’s intense and cerebral tone.
8. The Role Could Have Gone to Someone Else
Hugh Laurie wasn’t the only actor considered for the role of Gregory House. Denis Leary, Rob Morrow, Patrick Dempsey, and even Kyle MacLachlan auditioned for the part. MacLachlan later described his audition as one of his worst experiences, while Dempsey went on to star in Grey’s Anatomy as Dr. Derek Shepherd.
9. A Coffee Machine with a Message
The coffee machine in the team’s bullpen wasn’t just a prop — it had its own personality. Bearing the phrase 'Good Coffee: Cheaper than Prozac,' it added a touch of humor to the often dark and intense show.
10. 'Everybody Lies' Wasn’t Original
The show’s famous tagline, 'Everybody lies,' wasn’t unique to House M.D. It was first uttered by Dr. Bob Kelso on Scrubs in season 2, episode 12. House turned the phrase into a defining principle of its protagonist’s worldview, making it unforgettable.
These fascinating details offer a glimpse into the layers of creativity and thought behind House, M.D. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, the series’ mix of brilliance, complexity, and wit ensures its legacy lives on.
