Legit, Chase probably did view him as a father figure. When House "had" brain cancer, Chase was legitimately concerned and even hugged House thinking that he would die.
I'd even say that House came to share the view: he's using the wry tone to deflect from the fact that there is, in fact, some truth to him calling Chase his "son".
@@romeomonteverdeCancer but he wasn't trying to mess with them that time, he stole one patient's diagnosis of brain cancer so he could try a drug on a medical trial for brain cancer... totally sane and valid justification 🙂
This has another meaning separate from the religious connotation. In Season 1 Episode 5, a nun that talked with Chase told him her favourite Bible passage was The Prodigal Son which she used to tell Chase that God would be waiting for him as his faith was waning. With House saying the prodigal son has returned, it means his faith in Chase as his successor has been fulfilled.
I actually think there’s some truth to Chase being called House’s prodigal son! Out of all the ducklings he’s truly the most like House, and he does end up taking his place in the hospital. I feel as though they have quite a unique connection
How they thought we wanted a nurse Jeff show instead of getting to see Chase lead the diagnostics department is beyond me. I feel like it's too late now but I'd still watch the shit out of a show that picks up there
