'Off the Map:' An Interview with Creator Jenna Bans, Shonda Rhimes and Jason George

The "Off the Map" TV Premiere on Jan. 12 will introduce viewers to a whole new world of medicine, drama and exotic locations, from the producers of "Grey's Anatomy." Wednesday afternoon, executive producer and creator Jenna Bans participated in a preview interview via the "Grey's Anatomy" Facebook page, and fans were indulged with information about "Off the Map," an extended trailer, and teasers from the storytellers themselves.

Joining Rhimes in the interview were executive producer Shonda Rhimes, the creator/writer of "Grey's Anatomy," and Jason George, the actor who portrayed Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson)'s love interest during Season 7 of "Grey's Anatomy." Dozens upon dozens of "Grey's Anatomy" fans attended the Web interview, and although the event started off clunky with moderators begging for a break in comments, the enthusiasm likely reflected the anticipation for "Off the Map."

Rhimes was quick to correct fans who were under the impression she was behind the writing of "Off the Map." "On [Off the Map], Jenna is the creator and the main writer. It's HER show," she clarified during the Web interview. "On [Off the Map], I am the proud, proud Mama helping out in whatever way she needs."

Jason George, who played Ben on "Grey's Anatomy," made certain to explain that he was not reprising that role for "Off the Map." "I play OTIS COLE on [Off the Map]," he typed in response to a barrage of questions about a possible cross-over between Ben and Bailey. "He's a bit of a hard ass and is extremely difficult from sweet Ben on [Grey's Anatomy]." Rhimes confirmed the difference in roles: "Jason plays a very different character in 'Off the Map' than he does in [Grey's Anatomy]."

"Off the Map:" Not Another "Grey's Anatomy" Spin-Off

Although the official trailer, which you can view on ABC here, introduces us to a new cast of characters, many fans of "Grey's Anatomy" eager to sample "Off the Map" were under the impression that the new TV show is another spin-off.

"I wanted to tell a different story about docs doing amazing things we haven't seen before," explained Bans, who seems to have succeeded in doing just that, if the new setting and new cast of six doctors is any indication. She also obtains a lot of inspiration straight from the source: "From the real life docs who do this stuff - they really inspire telling good stories!"

According to ABC, the stellar new cast will include the "idealistic young" Dr. Lily Brenner (Caroline Dhavernas), fellow new doctors Mina Minard (Mamie Gummer) and Tommy Fuller (Zach Gilford), plus "the legendary and enigmatic Ben Keeton (Martin Henderson), who was the youngest Chief of Surgery at UCLA." Keeton's right-hand man is Otis Cole (Jason George), and the "mysterious Dr. Ryan Clark (Rachelle Lefevre) and local doctor Zita Alvarez (Valerie Cruz)" will help to introduce the newcomers to the "most challenging environment they've ever worked in-while taking them on adventures of a lifetime." Jonathan Castellanos is credited as "Charlie" on ABC, but no teaser tidbits are offered about the character.

"Off the Map:" Medical Drama Meets Topical Location

Many fans were interested about the exotic location of "Off the Map." According to the ABC website, fans will be introduced to "'la ciudad de las estrellas' (the city of stars), a tiny town in the South American jungle which has one understaffed, under-stocked medical clinic."

"The jungle is hot and usually wet but we have a pretty great time," commented George about the scenic location. Fortunately, George isn't concerned about the local wildlife while filming in South America: "Nope, no fear of snakes," he added in response to fan inquiries. "Not trying to lie bed with a bunch or anything but I'm cool with them."

In the teaser trailer, the "baby doctors" arrive on the coast of South America in the turbulent ocean only to be rescued by more experienced physicians. The small town has a modest medical clinic at best, but the atmosphere is certainly a drastic change from the stark, sophisticated Seattle Grace fans of "Grey's Anatomy" are used to.

"Off the Map:" What To Expect

According to Bans, the cast and crew filmed just 13 episodes for Season 1, which is approximately half of a typical TV show season. "Grey's Anatomy" typically offers 22-25 episodes each year.

Fortunately, fans of the show can expect several guest stars during the brief premiere run. "We've got awesome guest appearances coming up," offered Bans. "Ed Begley Jr. plays a dentist; Cheech Marin plays a medicine man!"

"This is the tropical rainforest; you're standing in the middle of the best medical resource on earth," explains voice-over introduction in the official trailer. Without a doubt, viewers can expect a healthy dose of environmental challenges with their medical drama during this premiere season of "Off the Map."

"Off the Map" premieres January 12th, 2011, at 10/9c on ABC.

Sources:
"Grey's Anatomy" Facebook Page, "OTM LIVE CHAT"
ABC, "Off the Map - About"