Dr. Shaun Murphy may be known for his surgical brilliance and unorthodox methods, but beneath the scalpel lies a young man whose evolution in friendship has quietly become one of the most heartfelt elements of The Good Doctor. Shaun doesn’t express love and camaraderie like everyone else—but that doesn’t make his bonds any less powerful. In fact, they might just be more profound. Here’s a closer look at seven unexpected lessons on friendship we’ve learned from Shaun Murphy’s journey so far.
1. You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Loved
Shaun’s quirks, honesty, and struggles with social norms often make his interactions unpredictable, but those who get close to him realize that perfection isn’t the foundation of real friendship—acceptance is. Shaun teaches us that being loved doesn’t require being flawless, just being sincere.
2. Boundaries Matter—and So Does Trust
Shaun is clear about what he needs in terms of personal space, routines, and communication. His friends who respect those boundaries are the ones he grows to trust. It’s a vital lesson in honoring each other’s limits without judgment.
3. Loyalty Isn’t Loud
Shaun may not always know the right thing to say, but he shows up. Whether it’s staying with a friend in a moment of crisis or defending someone he believes in, his loyalty is steady and unwavering. He reminds us that real friendship is shown in actions, not volume.
4. Vulnerability Is a Superpower
Opening up doesn’t come easy for Shaun, but when he does, it’s raw and honest. Whether it’s asking for help, admitting fear, or expressing joy, his moments of emotional honesty deepen his relationships. Vulnerability, as Shaun shows us, isn’t weakness—it’s a bridge.
5. Friendship Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
From his bond with Dr. Glassman to his evolving relationship with Lea, and his gentle connection with Claire, Shaun shows that every friendship is unique. What works in one may not work in another—and that’s okay. Understanding and patience are what sustain them.
6. Forgiveness Is a Gift You Can Choose to Give
There are times when Shaun has been hurt or misunderstood by his friends. But he also shows an incredible capacity for forgiveness. He may not forget, but he doesn’t hold grudges either. That emotional maturity is something we could all learn from.
7. Growth Comes From Connection
Perhaps the most profound lesson is that Shaun’s growth—both as a doctor and a person—has been deeply tied to the people who stood by him. Friendship, even when messy or imperfect, has helped him evolve. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re shaped not just by our talents, but by the people who believe in us.
Dr. Shaun Murphy may not fit the mold of a traditional friend, but that’s what makes his journey so compelling. Through his lens, The Good Doctor offers a refreshing, deeply human look at what friendship can truly mean.
