Is Pulse Based on Real Story? All You Need To Know About Latest Netflix Medical Drama Drawing Comparisons with Grey's Anatomy
Despite its authentic storytelling, Pulse is entirely fictional. The show’s creators are Zoe Robyn and Carlton Cuse.

Netflix’s Pulse has quickly drawn comparisons to Grey’s Anatomy with its gripping portrayal of medical professionals balancing their careers and personal lives. The drama centers on Danny Simms, a third-year resident on the verge of becoming Chief Resident, who stirs controversy by filing a sexual harassment complaint against her boss, Xander Phillips. Given the intense and realistic depiction of workplace dynamics in the medical field, many viewers are wondering—Is Pulse based on a true story? And is Danny Simms inspired by a real doctor?
Despite its authentic storytelling, Pulse is entirely fictional. The show’s creators, Zoe Robyn and Carlton Cuse, designed the series to focus on the interpersonal dynamics within a hospital setting rather than crafting a documentary-style medical drama. Their primary goal was to explore how deep connections between co-workers influence their personal and professional lives, especially in high-pressure environments.
Robyn and Cuse were particularly interested in portraying medical professionals as deeply flawed individuals rather than infallible heroes. They wanted to highlight how personal struggles inevitably bleed into work, sometimes impacting patient care in ways that aren’t always ideal. By keeping the characters grounded in their humanity, the show makes their challenges and triumphs more relatable to audiences.
Before deciding on a hospital setting, the creators first developed the character of Danny Simms. While she is not directly inspired by any real-life doctor, her experiences reflect realistic struggles faced by professionals in demanding workplaces. Rather than crafting a clear-cut villain or hero in the conflict between Danny and Xander, the writers focused on their differing backgrounds and perspectives, making their dynamic feel both intense and authentic.
One of the show’s most compelling aspects is how it explores the fallout of Danny’s complaint against Xander. The creators aimed to depict not only the personal and emotional impact on both characters but also how outsiders perceive such situations. The narrative delves into the complexities of workplace power struggles, the consequences of speaking up, and the ambiguity of human relationships, all of which contribute to the show’s gripping drama.
Ultimately, Pulse is not based on a true story, but its nuanced storytelling makes it feel incredibly real. The series not only tackles the messiness of workplace relationships and ambition but also underscores the importance of friendship and support systems in high-stress environments. With its mix of drama, heart, and ethical dilemmas, Pulse offers viewers a compelling and thought-provoking experience.