Zachary Quinto tackles memory loss and face blindness in ‘Brilliant Minds’ drama

(NBC) — Blind auditions continue Monday on NBC’s “The Voice” followed by the new medical drama, “Brilliant Minds.”

Zachary Quinto plays a neurologist dealing with various conditions and ailments affecting the brain, including Monday’s case about memory retention.

When Quinto took on his starring role in “Brilliant Minds” he expected the writers would take some creative license.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read scripts for the show, and I’ll be like, ‘OK, well, that’s fake,’” said Quinto. “And then I go to Michael Grassy, our showrunner, and every single thing in the show is real.”

That includes the case Quinto’s character Dr. Oliver Wolf deals with on Monday. A man faces a surgery that will wipe out his ability to keep new memories.

“I think it just goes to show how complex the brain is and how there is just an endless configuration of possibilities and stories to tell about the mind,” said Quinto.

And often “Brilliant Minds” is less about curing patients than adjusting to new realities optimistically.

“We can still enjoy and experience life fully, even though it may not be on the terms we are used to or might want it to be,” said Quinto.

Wolf knows that his prosopagnosia, or face blindness, has required him to adapt.

“Focusing on details, focusing on other aspects that will give them information to allow them to recognize who they’re talking to,” said Quinto.

“I think it’s a blessing,” said Tamberla Perry who plays Dr. Carol Pierce on the show. “He’s able to look deeper, as opposed to, you know, what we see. So, it’s absolutely a blessing.”

And it is part of how “Brilliant Minds” lives up to its title.

“Brilliant Minds” airs Monday at 10 p.m., right after “The Voice.”

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