The series finale of The Good Doctor, aired on May 21, 2024, delivered a gut-wrenching conclusion to Shaun Murphy’s journey, with Freddie Highmore’s performance leaving an indelible mark on viewers. In Season 7, Episode 10 (“Goodbye”), the emotional centerpiece is Shaun’s heartbreaking farewell to his mentor and father figure, Dr. Aaron Glassman (Richard Schiff). This scene, set against the backdrop of Glassman’s terminal cancer diagnosis, showcases Highmore’s ability to convey profound grief while honoring the show’s themes of love and sacrifice. Let’s explore why this moment is a defining highlight of The Good Doctor and a must-see for fans of heartfelt storytelling.
The finale picks up after the penultimate episode’s cliffhangers: Glassman reveals his cancer has returned, and Claire Browne (Antonia Thomas) collapses from a life-threatening infection. Shaun, now an attending surgeon, is determined to save both, but Glassman refuses treatment, choosing to spend his remaining months with his family. In a pivotal scene, Shaun confronts Glassman in the same boardroom where he first fought for his place at St. Bonaventure Hospital in the pilot. Highmore’s delivery of Shaun’s plea—calm yet desperate, logical yet emotional—captures the depth of their bond. When Glassman stands firm, Shaun’s quiet acceptance, marked by a tearful “I love you,” is a moment of devastating beauty.
Freddie Highmore’s performance in this scene is a testament to his growth as an actor over seven seasons. He balances Shaun’s analytical mind with raw vulnerability, making the farewell both authentic and universally relatable. Fan reactions, as seen in a Reddit thread with over 3,000 votes, praise the finale’s nostalgic return to the pilot’s boardroom, with users calling Highmore’s speech “a masterclass in emotional storytelling.” The scene’s power lies in its full-circle moment: Shaun, once a nervous resident, now stands as a leader, honoring Glassman’s legacy.
The Good Doctor shines in its ability to weave personal stakes with medical drama, and the finale exemplifies this. Glassman’s decision to help save Claire, even at the cost of his own health, mirrors Shaun’s selflessness, creating a poignant parallel. Highmore’s chemistry with Schiff, built over 126 episodes, makes their final “I love you” a cathartic release for longtime viewers. The scene also ties into the season’s flashforward, where Shaun delivers a TED Talk, reflecting on his journey and Glassman’s impact—a moment fans have called “chef’s kiss” for its closure.
For those new to The Good Doctor, this finale is a compelling reason to binge the series on Hulu. Freddie Highmore’s portrayal of Shaun Murphy challenges stereotypes about autism, offering a nuanced depiction that has sparked global conversations. The Season 7 finale is a perfect culmination, blending tragedy and hope in a way that leaves viewers inspired. Whether you’re drawn to medical dramas or character-driven stories, The Good Doctor and Highmore’s unforgettable performance will stay with you long after the credits roll.
