Which character became House’s boss as dean of medicine in House M.D.?

Lisa Cuddy became House’s boss as dean of medicine in House M.D. Cuddy is the administrator responsible for overseeing Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital and managing House’s often difficult conduct.

Lisa Edelstein played Cuddy from the series premiere through the seventh season. The character is a physician and hospital administrator who must balance patient care, institutional rules, budgets, and House’s unconventional methods. Although she frequently disciplines or argues with him, she also recognizes his diagnostic ability and protects his department when his results justify the risks.

Cuddy’s relationship with House develops beyond workplace conflict. Their romantic relationship becomes a major storyline in the later seasons, but professional authority remains central to their interactions. Cuddy is House’s superior, not his medical partner or fellow diagnostician.

The title “dean of medicine” is especially associated with Cuddy’s leadership at Princeton-Plainsboro. Lisa Edelstein left the regular cast after season seven, so Cuddy does not serve as House’s boss throughout the entire eight-season run.