Josh Charles: From “Dead Poets” to “The Handmaid’s Tale” – A Canadian Fan’s Guide

For over three decades, Josh Charles has been a quietly compelling fixture on our screens, evolving from the earnest prep school poet in “Dead Poets Society” to the morally complex lawyers and commanders that define prestige TV. As Canadian audiences gear up for his pivotal role in the final season of “The Handmaid’s Tale” and his upcoming starring turn in a major Fox comedy, Charles’s career is hitting a fascinating new peak. This isn’t just another actor’s story; it’s a masterclass in navigating Hollywood with integrity, choosing roles that resonate, and delivering performances that stick with you long after the credits roll.

Whether you know him as the ill-fated Will Gardner from “The Good Wife” or are just discovering him through his recent thriller work in “The Veil,” Charles represents a specific brand of reliable, nuanced talent. Let’s dive into the journey of this Emmy-nominated actor, his landmark roles, and what Canadian viewers can expect from him next.

The Josh Charles File: A Career at a Glance

Before we explore the chapters of his career, here are the essential facts about Josh Charles.

From “Carpe Diem” to Primetime Emmy Nods

Charles’s career trajectory is a testament to smart choices and enduring talent. He didn’t fade after a massive early success but built a diverse and respected body of work.

The Early Break: “Dead Poets Society” & “Sports Night”

His film debut alongside Robin Williams in Peter Weir’s “Dead Poets Society” launched him into the spotlight. He followed this with a critically adored but ratings-challenged turn as Dan Rydell on Aaron Sorkin’s “Sports Night,” a role that cemented his reputation for sharp, fast-paced dialogue and cemented a loyal fanbase.

Defining Television: “The Good Wife” and Will Gardner

For five seasons, Charles was the emotional core of CBS’s “The Good Wife” as Will Gardner, the complicated love interest and law partner to Julianna Margulies’s Alicia Florrick. His shocking exit in Season 5 remains one of the most talked-about TV deaths of the last decade.

“I think it was great for the show and also I think was a proper goodbye to the character,” Charles said in an interview, reflecting on his decision to leave the steady job for the sake of the narrative.

The role earned him two Primetime Emmy nominations and showcased his ability to balance charm, ambition, and vulnerability.

Josh Charles Now: Current & Upcoming Projects

As of 2026, Charles is more in demand than ever, with major roles in two highly anticipated series.

Commander Wharton in “The Handmaid’s Tale”

Joining the cast for its sixth and final season in a series regular capacity, Charles steps into the dystopian world of Gilead. His role as Commander Wharton is expected to bring new political and personal dynamics to the climactic end of the award-winning series.

Leading “Best Medicine”: The “Doc Martin” Adaptation

In a significant career pivot, Charles is set to star in and executive produce “Best Medicine,” Fox’s American adaptation of the beloved British series “Doc Martin.” He’ll play Dr. Martin Best, a brilliant surgeon with a bedside manner deficit who takes over a small-town practice. This one-hour comedy series is slated for the 2025-2026 broadcast season.

Beyond the Screen: Stage Work and Personal Insights

Charles has consistently returned to his theatrical roots. His stage work, including a celebrated revival of Neil LaBute’s “The Distance From Here,” demonstrates a commitment to the craft beyond television. He remains close friends with his “Dead Poets Society” co-star Ethan Hawke, illustrating the lasting bonds formed early in his career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Josh Charles leave “The Good Wife”?

Josh Charles decided to leave “The Good Wife” after five seasons to pursue other creative opportunities and to allow for a powerful, narrative-driven exit for his character, Will Gardner. He has stated that while it was tough to leave a steady job, he believed the shocking death of his character was great for the show and served as a proper conclusion to Will’s story.

What is Josh Charles’s new show on Fox?

Josh Charles’s new show is titled “Best Medicine.” It is an American adaptation of the British hit “Doc Martin,” where Charles will star as Dr. Martin Best, a surgeon with poor people skills who becomes a small-town doctor. Fox has given it a series order for the 2025-2026 season.

What character does Josh Charles play in “The Handmaid’s Tale”?

In the sixth and final season of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Josh Charles plays Commander Wharton, a new series regular role. Details are closely guarded, but his character is expected to be a significant figure within the power structure of Gilead.

What was Josh Charles’s first major movie role?

Josh Charles’s first major movie role was as Knox Overstreet in the 1989 classic “Dead Poets Society,” starring alongside Robin Williams and Ethan Hawke. The film launched his career and remains a defining early performance.