'Chicago Med' season 2 release date news: Dr. Rhodes finds new love; Dr. Choi moves up the career ladder; actress S. Epatha Merkerson speaks on her real-life health struggles

Rookie medical drama spinoff series "Chicago Med" ended on a devastating loss last month, so viewers expect more lightness among the staff of Gaffney Chicago Medical Center's emergency department once the show returns for season 2.

Season 1 left off with Dr. Rhodes (Colin Donnell) finding himself in the midst of a life-and-death situation with a person he looks up to — Dr. Downey (Gregg Henry). Unfortunately, the latter's health took a turn for the worse and he died in the end.

On the brighter side, it seems like Dr. Rhodes will find romance to bring balance in his busy life because the dashing doctor will not be single for too long. In an interview with TV Line, executive producer Andrew Schneider hints: "You can't have a guy who's that talented and goodlooking and not have him be in love a little." Meanwhile, things might be looking good for Dr. Choi (Brian Tee) as he will continue to move up the career ladder while facing "some new challenges" according to co-executive producer Diane Frolov. "A little surprise" will also be revealed about Dr. Charles (Oliver Platt).

Meanwhile, one of the emergency department's own is facing real-life health struggles. Actress S. Epatha Merkerson deals with fictional medical issues when she plays the character of hospital administrator Sharon Goodwin, but in real life, she is currently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The actress shared that her colleagues were very supportive of her when she explained her condition to them. "They all know that I have Type 2 diabetes," she told TV Guide. "Everyone on set knows. Even the craft service people, they only put things in my camper that they know that I can eat. I asked for a soda the other day and she said 'No. I put some things in your room that I think are healthier choices.' So, I let everybody know, and now they're making me toe the line, which is really good."

"Chicago Med" season 2 returns to the small screen this coming Fall on NBC.