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"I've usually found, Dr. Rhodes, that when given responsibility, people rise to the occasion. I know the last few weeks have been challenging, and I'd be lying if I said the months to come will be any easier. I have an impossible amount to teach you in a diminishing amount of time. You don't have to show me how smart you are, and you don't have to please me. Just learn."
—David to Connor

Dr. David Downey was a cardiothoracic surgeon at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center, and mentor to Connor Rhodes. He was portrayed by Gregg Henry.

Quick Answers

What was Dr. David Downey's specialty at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center? toggle section
Dr. David Downey, an esteemed cardiothoracic surgeon, served as an attending physician at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center. He was recognized for his expertise and mentorship of Connor Rhodes. Unfortunately, his career was prematurely ended by liver cancer.
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Who was Dr. David Downey's mentee in Chicago Med? toggle section
The mentee of Dr. David Downey, a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center, was Connor Rhodes. Downey, known for his love of Hawaii and tropical shirts, was brought to life on screen by Gregg Henry.
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How did Dr. Downey handle the challenges at the medical center? toggle section
Dr. David Downey, a character in Chicago Med, managed medical center challenges with calmness and proficiency. He guided Dr. Rhodes in numerous surgeries, even stepping in to complete a procedure when necessary. Despite a personal health crisis following a liver ablation, Dr. Downey maintained his role as a respected figure in the center. His trust in colleagues was hard-earned, reflecting their competence and commitment.
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What was the relationship between Dr. Downey and Connor Rhodes? toggle section
In Chicago Med, Dr. David Downey served as a mentor to Dr. Connor Rhodes. Downey expressed satisfaction in mentoring Rhodes, particularly when Rhodes decided to specialize in cardiothoracic surgery. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect and deep emotional connection, evident when Rhodes stayed by Downey's bedside during his illness. Professionally, they worked together on surgeries, despite occasional disagreements on the approach.
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Biography[]

Dr. David Downey was a world renowned cardiothoracic surgeon with a fascination for Hawaii and a love for tropical shirts. Before every surgery he performed, he had a Arab mint tea. His most famous patient was the prince of Saudi Arabia for a valve surgery.

At the start of the series, David had already been suffering from liver cancer for a period of time. On one occasion, it caused him to black out and crash his car, leading to him being admitted to the Emergency Department, it's revealed that he is 58 years old. (S1 E9)

Downey's cancer eventually becomes terminal. Confined to a bed, he and Connor share one more moment together before David succumbs to an alleged lethal dosage of morphine, administered by Connor. This is never shown on screen and is never addressed, nor does Connor suffer any repercussions for it.

Gallery[]

Appearances[]

Season 1
Derailed iNo Fallback Mistaken Malignant
Bound Saints Reunion Choices Clarity
Intervention Guilty Us Hearts Inheritance
Disorder Withdrawal Timing