In The Good Doctor, Freddie Highmore’s Dr. Shaun Murphy doesn’t just save lives with a scalpel; he captures hearts with a song. Picture a dimly lit bar in Season 1, Episode 10, “Sacrifice,” where Shaun, a surgical resident with autism and savant syndrome, steps onto a karaoke stage with Lea (Paige Spara). Their duet of “Islands in the Stream” is more than a melody—it’s a crescendo of vulnerability, connection, and hope. Highmore’s performance, tender and unguarded, turns this moment into a symphony of emotion, setting the stage for a love story that resonates across seven seasons. This essay explores how Highmore’s musical moments, from karaoke nights to the wedding vows of Season 5, make The Good Doctor a must-watch on Hulu or ABC.
Fast-forward to Season 5, Episode 7, “Expired,” aired on November 15, 2021. Shaun and Lea’s wedding is a celebration of their turbulent yet triumphant love. As they exchange vows, accompanied by a soft instrumental score, Highmore’s Shaun radiates joy and resolve. His speech, memorized with the same precision he applies to surgery, is delivered with a trembling sincerity that earned Highmore a People’s Choice Award nomination. The wedding, set against a backdrop of medical crises, feels like a victory, and Highmore’s beaming expression as Shaun says “I do” is a fan-favorite moment shared widely online.
Highmore’s ability to weave emotion into these musical milestones is what makes The Good Doctor sing. In “Sacrifice,” Shaun’s karaoke duet isn’t just a performance; it’s a leap of faith. Highmore’s subtle shifts—from nervous glances to a tentative grin—show Shaun discovering joy in chaos. The scene’s emotional weight, amplified by Highmore’s preparation with vocal coaches, resonates with viewers who see music as a universal language. Autistic advocate Kerry Magro praised the portrayal, noting how Shaun’s sensory experience of music reflects real autistic experiences.
By Season 5, the wedding scene showcases Highmore’s evolution. Shaun, once paralyzed by social cues, now embraces love with confidence. Highmore’s delivery of the vows, infused with Shaun’s characteristic directness, feels like a love song in itself. The show’s soundtrack, crafted by composer Dan Romer, enhances the moment, making it a tearjerker for romantics. Highmore’s chemistry with Spara, built over seasons, turns the wedding into a payoff for fans who’ve followed their arc since that karaoke night.
The Good Doctor’s global appeal lies in its ability to blend medical drama with heartfelt storytelling. Highmore, who also wrote and directed episodes, ensures Shaun’s journey is as compelling as any chart-topping hit. Stream all seven seasons on Hulu to witness Shaun and Lea’s love story unfold, or catch reruns on ABC. The show’s accessibility, combined with its emotional depth, makes it a binge-worthy escape for music lovers and romantics alike.
