On November 9, 1995, NBC broadcast “Hell and High Water,” an influential episode of ER that marked a turning point in George Clooney’s career. As the show celebrates its 30th anniversary, director Christopher Chulack, who received an Emmy nomination for his work on the episode, has shared insights into the episode’s production and its impact on Clooney’s trajectory in Hollywood.
In an interview with TV Insider, Chulack explained that the groundwork for “Hell and High Water” was meticulously laid out prior to filming. The gripping storyline centered around Clooney’s character, Dr. Doug Ross, as he fought against the storm to save a boy trapped in a storm drain. Chulack emphasized the preparation that went into the episode, recalling a critical production meeting. “We had a big meeting. We knew we had a kid in the water as well as number two on the call sheet, George Clooney, and although he wasn’t George Clooney yet — he was George Clooney after that episode,” he remarked.
Despite ER already enjoying popularity, “Hell and High Water” significantly elevated the show’s status, attracting an astounding 45 million viewers and making it the highest-rated program of that week. The episode was met with critical acclaim, earning six nominations at the 48th Primetime Emmy Awards, including a nod for Clooney as Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
Chulack highlighted how the impact of Clooney’s performance extended beyond the television screen. The day after the episode aired, top executives at Warner Bros. Television approached Clooney, indicating that his role in the episode had firmly established him in Hollywood. “Bob Daley and Terry Semel came down and knocked on George’s dressing room door and told him, ‘You’re going to be the next Batman because of the heroism of that episode’,” Chulack recounted. This pivotal moment set Clooney on a new path, culminating in his portrayal of Bruce Wayne in 1997’s Batman & Robin, making him the sixth actor to take on the iconic role.
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However, Batman & Robin received harsh criticism for its campy tone, largely attributed to a directive from Warner Bros. to create a more toy-friendly product, which did not sit well with audiences and critics alike. It is often labeled as not only the worst Batman film but also one of the most poorly received movies in cinematic history.
Fans of ER can revisit the remarkable “Hell and High Water” episode by streaming it on HBO Max or Hulu, reliving the moment that transformed George Clooney from a television actor into a Hollywood star.
