The devoted followers of “Chicago Med” who are rooting for a romantic connection between Hannah Asher, portrayed by Jessy Schram, and Dean Archer, played by Steven Weber, have endured a rollercoaster of emotions. Amidst the ups and downs of their uncertain relationship, Hannah’s brief involvement with Mitch Ripley, brought to life by Luke Mitchell, added another layer of complexity. However, a recent twist in the storyline has given fans a glimmer of hope—Hannah’s unexpected pregnancy from a one-night encounter with Dean. Yet, tensions rise as the duo clash over the future of their child. Now, viewers are further dismayed by Dean’s apparent interest in the new addition to the hospital staff, Dr. Jennifer Kingston, portrayed by Merrin Dungey. The chemistry between Dean and Kingston is palpable, heightened by flirtatious exchanges set to mood-enhancing music during a surgical procedure.

The evolving dynamics among Hannah, Dean, and possibly Kingston are stirring a mix of excitement and frustration within the fan community. “They are the slowest burn ever,” commented user u/London50th on a discussion forum. Meanwhile, others expressed stronger feelings about Dean’s actions. “I cannot take another Dean in a boring relationship with an age-appropriate woman… This can’t be happening!! Not again!!” exclaimed u/ProofEmu2253. Some fans speculate that Kingston’s role is merely to serve as a catalyst to eventually unite Dean and Hannah. Despite the turmoil, hope lingers among viewers who believe there might be a significant hurdle preventing Dean and Kingston from forming a deeper bond.

Many fans are convinced that the ultimate narrative goal for “Chicago Med” is to bring Dean and Hannah together, and they have reasons to believe so. During an exchange with Dean, Kingston reveals her disinterest in having children—a potential dealbreaker considering Dean’s existing adult son and his impending fatherhood with Hannah.

With Dean fully committed to ensuring the well-being of his and Hannah’s baby, which may face health challenges, it’s no surprise that fans are growing impatient with the current storyline and Dean’s decisions. His character has made significant strides since his near-exit from the series early in his tenure, yet there remains room for personal growth. Fans continue to hope for a future where Dean and Hannah find happiness together, overcoming the hurdles in their path.

That’s just one reason the audience is holding out hope that Kingston is simply a roadblock to Dean and Hannah’s happily ever after. “I saw the wheels moving in Hannah’s head during the episode regarding family and telling the ones you love how you feel. I think if she told Dean she wanted them to be a family he would jump at it,” u/London50th notes. 

With Dean being very committed to making sure his and Hannah’s baby, which may have health complications, comes into the world safe and sound, is it any wonder that fans are annoyed by his behavior and the show’s choices — and continue to wish for a brighter tomorrow for them both? Dean’s definitely come a long way from being nearly killed off the show early in his run, but he’s still got some growing to do.