In the age of peak television, where new shows arrive on our screens almost daily, few manage to truly stand out. Yet The Good Doctor, the medical drama created by David Shore and based on the South Korean series of the same name, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Since its debut in 2017, the show has consistently drawn a loyal audience, blending emotional storytelling with compelling characters. If you haven’t started watching it yet—or if you stopped somewhere along the way—here are 10 reasons why The Good Doctor should be on your must-watch list.
1. A Unique Take on the Medical Drama
Medical dramas are nothing new. From Grey’s Anatomy to ER, the genre has long been a television staple. What makes The Good Doctor unique is its focus on Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgical resident with autism and savant syndrome. His journey offers a refreshing lens through which to explore the challenges and triumphs of working in medicine. The show doesn’t just follow the medical cases—it examines the way Shaun interprets and navigates a world that doesn’t always understand him.
2. Freddie Highmore’s Outstanding Performance
At the heart of The Good Doctor is Freddie Highmore’s portrayal of Shaun. Highmore, known for his roles in Bates Motel and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, delivers one of the most nuanced and heartfelt performances on television. His ability to convey Shaun’s brilliance, vulnerability, and social struggles without turning him into a stereotype is nothing short of remarkable. Many fans and critics alike credit Highmore’s performance as the show’s most powerful element.
3. Medical Cases That Keep You Hooked
Every episode offers gripping medical cases that range from the routine to the life-threatening. Viewers are introduced to rare conditions, emergency surgeries, and ethical dilemmas that challenge both the doctors and the audience. The cases aren’t just “medical puzzles” to solve—they often tie directly into the characters’ personal struggles, amplifying the drama and emotional resonance.
4. Powerful Representation of Autism
One of the show’s most important contributions is its representation of autism. While no single character can capture the full spectrum of autistic experiences, Shaun’s portrayal has sparked valuable conversations about inclusion, accessibility, and the importance of embracing neurodiversity. Many viewers with autism—or their family members—have shared how meaningful it is to see a character like Shaun in the spotlight.
5. Emotional Storytelling That Resonates
The Good Doctor doesn’t shy away from heavy emotions. Episodes tackle loss, discrimination, medical ethics, and personal relationships with sincerity. The writing invites viewers to cry, celebrate, and reflect alongside the characters. In a television landscape full of cynical dramas, the show’s emotional honesty is refreshing. It reminds us of the humanity at the core of medicine.
6. A Strong Supporting Cast
While Shaun is the centerpiece, the show thrives thanks to its ensemble cast. Characters like Dr. Aaron Glassman (Richard Schiff), Shaun’s mentor and father figure, bring depth and warmth. The surgical team—including figures like Dr. Claire Browne, Dr. Alex Park, and Dr. Morgan Reznick—add layers of complexity and conflict. The dynamics among these doctors provide everything from mentorship and camaraderie to rivalry and romance.
7. Realistic Ethical Dilemmas
Beyond the drama of surgeries, The Good Doctor frequently places its characters in morally complex situations. Should a risky surgery be attempted against a patient’s wishes? How should limited resources be allocated? Can personal beliefs influence medical decisions? These dilemmas make the show thought-provoking, asking viewers to wrestle with questions that don’t have easy answers.
8. Character Growth and Development
One of the most satisfying aspects of the series is watching Shaun—and his colleagues—grow over time. Shaun evolves from a nervous resident struggling to be accepted to a confident surgeon learning to balance professional excellence with personal life. Meanwhile, characters like Park and Morgan face their own journeys of self-discovery, sacrifice, and change. The progression feels authentic and keeps the audience invested season after season.
9. A Balance of Hope and Heartbreak
What sets The Good Doctor apart is its balance. While the show deals with heartbreaking losses and devastating setbacks, it never forgets to shine a light on hope. Each season delivers moments of triumph and human connection—reminders that even in the darkest times, there is joy and resilience. That balance is what makes it endlessly rewatchable and deeply inspiring.
10. It’s More Than Just a Medical Show
At its core, The Good Doctor is about more than surgeries or hospitals. It’s about human connection, perseverance, and empathy. It asks: What does it mean to be different? How can we overcome prejudice? What makes someone a good doctor—or a good person? The show resonates because it reminds us that brilliance and compassion can coexist in unexpected ways.
With its combination of medical drama, emotional storytelling, and powerful representation, The Good Doctor has solidified itself as one of the most important shows of the last decade. Whether you’re drawn in by Freddie Highmore’s performance, the high-stakes surgeries, or the heartwarming character arcs, there’s something in this series for everyone. If you haven’t yet dived into Shaun Murphy’s world, now is the perfect time. The Good Doctor isn’t just another show about doctors—it’s a story about humanity itself. And that’s exactly why it deserves a spot on your watchlist.
