Zachary Quinto & Teddy Sears Explore Healing, Identity and Storytelling in S2 of “Brilliant Minds”

NBC’s Oliver Sacks–inspired drama "Brilliant Minds" returns for its second season, continuing to explore complex patient stories, queer love, and the importance of embracing difference.

Ahead of the premiere, stars Zachary Quinto and Teddy Sears spoke with Communications Associate Yolanda Lenge about the show’s impact and why its storytelling feels especially vital now.

Quinto emphasized representation’s power, “Playing an openly gay character as an openly gay actor at a time when our community is under attack in so many ways, I think is valuable from the perspective of representation. The highest compliment anyone can pay the show is if they see themselves in the stories we’re telling.”

Sears also spoke about the series’ compassionate approach, “Dr. Wolf treats the whole patient and puts himself in their shoes. It’s not just about how successful a surgery is—it’s about much more than that.”

For both actors, the heart of "Brilliant Minds" lies in honoring differences while highlighting what connects us. Quinto explained, “We’re telling queer stories, stories from people of different socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnic experiences, and spiritual perspectives. Beyond what makes them unique, we’re leaning into the human aspects of what they’re going through—and that’s universal.”

Sears agreed, adding: “We all want the same things, being understood, accepted, cared for, and heard. My hope is that everyone can see themselves in our show.”

"Brilliant Minds" Season 2 premiered on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT on NBC. New episodes will be available to stream the next day on Peacock.