The renewal of The Good Doctor for its sixth season was driven by a combination of strong performance metrics and the show’s unique position in ABC’s lineup. In its fifth season, the series averaged 4.58 million viewers and a 0.6 rating in the 18-49 demographic, maintaining stability compared to season four. With 10.5 million viewers after 35 days of multi-platform viewing, it ranked as the No. 1 entertainment series in its Monday 10 PM slot for both total viewers and the key demographic. These figures, bolstered by significant DVR and streaming viewership on platforms like Hulu, made The Good Doctor a reliable performer, even as live TV audiences dwindled industry-wide.
Beyond ratings, the show’s cultural impact played a pivotal role. The Good Doctor broke new ground by featuring a neurodivergent protagonist, portrayed with nuance by Freddie Highmore. Shaun Murphy’s journey—navigating professional skepticism, personal relationships, and societal biases—resonated with audiences globally, leading to adaptations in South Korea and Japan. The series’ focus on neurodiversity and inclusion aligned with growing public demand for authentic representation, making it a flagship drama for ABC. Fan sentiment on X echoed this, with users celebrating the renewal by dropping stethoscope emojis and praising the show’s heartfelt storytelling.
ABC’s confidence in the series was further evidenced by its order of 22 episodes for season six, the longest season to date, incorporating two episodes originally planned for season five. The network also promoted executive producer Liz Friedman to co-showrunner alongside David Shore, signaling a commitment to fresh creative direction. The renewal was a strategic move to capitalize on the show’s loyal fanbase and streaming potential while navigating a competitive television landscape dominated by streaming giants.
Challenges and Context of Season 6
The production and reception of season six were not without challenges, reflecting broader industry dynamics. The 2023 Hollywood strikes by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and SAG-AFTRA, which began in May 2023, delayed production for season seven and influenced ABC’s scheduling strategy. Although season six was completed before the strikes, with filming concluding on April 6, 2023, the labor disputes underscored the precariousness of scripted programming. The strikes highlighted issues like fair wages and AI’s role in writing, which indirectly impacted long-running shows facing rising costs.
Creatively, season six pushed Shaun into new territory as a surgical resident at St. Bonaventure Hospital, grappling with increased responsibilities, an attack on the hospital, new residents, and Lea’s high-risk pregnancy. The season explored Shaun’s growth as a leader and future father, maintaining the show’s emotional core. New cast members, including Brandon Larracuente as a series regular and Savannah Welch, added fresh dynamics, while Chuku Modu’s return as Dr. Jared Kalu rekindled fan interest. However, some critics and fans on platforms like IMDb noted a shift toward soap opera-like subplots, arguing the focus occasionally strayed from Shaun’s unique perspective. Despite these critiques, the season’s 0.32 rating in the 18-49 demographic and 3.34 million viewers in live+same day ratings remained competitive, though down 20% from season five.
The Lasting Legacy of The Good Doctor
Despite its cancellation, The Good Doctor’s impact is undeniable. Over seven seasons and 126 episodes, it challenged stereotypes about autism, portraying Shaun as a complex, capable individual rather than a caricature. The show’s global reach, with millions of viewers and international adaptations, amplified its message of inclusion. Fan reactions on X and Reddit expressed disappointment but also gratitude for the series’ role in raising awareness about neurodiversity. One X post praised a scene where Shaun’s literal thinking cut through ideological debates, showcasing his unique perspective.
The series also set a benchmark for medical dramas, prioritizing empathy over sensationalism. Unlike Grey’s Anatomy, which leaned on romantic drama, The Good Doctor focused on human connection and ethical dilemmas, earning praise for its authenticity. Its ensemble cast, including Richard Schiff, Paige Spara, and Christina Chang, enriched Shaun’s story, creating a community that mirrored real-world struggles for acceptance.
Conclusion
ABC’s renewal of The Good Doctor for season six was a testament to its strong ratings, cultural significance, and loyal fanbase. The season delivered compelling narratives and fresh faces, despite challenges from industry strikes and shifting viewer habits. However, the series’ cancellation after season seven reflected economic realities, narrative completion, and ABC’s strategic pivot toward unscripted and high-impact programming. The Good Doctor leaves a profound legacy as a pioneer of neurodiversity representation, proving that meaningful stories can thrive in a challenging industry. Shaun Murphy’s journey may have ended, but its impact on viewers and the television landscape will endure.
