Kauai’s Kaliko Kauahi Shines in NBC’s ‘St. Denis Medical’

Kaliko Kauahi, a native of Kauai, returns to television on Monday, March 18, 2024, in the second season of NBC’s comedy series St. Denis Medical. This mockumentary sitcom provides a humorous look at the diverse staff at an underfunded hospital in Oregon, delving into the dynamics of a high-pressure workplace where personal interactions can lead to both conflict and camaraderie.

Character Development and New Directions

Kauahi plays Val, a no-nonsense nurse administrator who has been characterized in media as “surly.” However, Kauahi views her role differently, describing Val as competent and grounded. “She’s someone who is really good at her job,” Kauahi explained. “The high jinks at the hospital sometimes get out of control, but Val’s always gonna keep it in control, keep things moving.”

Fans of the show can expect a broader exploration of the characters in the new season. Kauahi noted that while Season 1 focused on introductions, Season 2 will allow viewers to see more about the characters’ lives outside of the hospital. “We get to venture out a little bit and see what they do and how they’re like outside the hospital. There’ll be more high jinks, lots of fun, lots of laughs,” she said.

Kauahi’s Journey to Stardom

A graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapalama, Kauahi initially studied communications and recording arts at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles before pursuing a career in acting. Her breakthrough role came with her portrayal of Sandra Kaluiokalani on NBC’s Superstore, where she transitioned from a recurring character to a series regular. Kauahi has also appeared as Principal Kwan in the Disney Channel series Raven’s Home, along with guest roles on the NBC sitcom American Auto and the Paramount+ comedy series iCarly.

Reflecting on her career, Kauahi remarked, “Growing up I didn’t see a lot of people that looked like me or my friends or my family on TV, and so it seemed a little far-fetched to be on this career path. Hopefully the visibility of having a local girl on a national television show and seeing people that look like you on there will help local kids feel like it’s attainable.”

Kauahi commended the writers of St. Denis Medical for their collaborative approach and commitment to quality. “We have a really great writers’ room,” she said. “They’re very open to ideas and collaborating, but also they come with great ideas. These are all seasoned professionals who are so good at what they do.”

St. Denis Medical airs back-to-back episodes at 19:00 and 19:30 on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock starting the following Tuesday.