When The Good Doctor premiered in 2017, few could have predicted just how impactful the show would become. Centered on Dr. Shaun Murphy (Freddie Highmore), a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, the series has earned global praise for its emotional storytelling and authentic performances. Alongside him, veteran actor Hill Harper brought heart and authority as Dr. Marcus Andrews. Together, they’ve helped shape a medical drama that’s as inspiring as it is gripping.
So, what makes The Good Doctor truly special? Freddie Highmore and Hill Harper help us prescribe nine essential things every fan—and soon-to-be fan—should know about the show.
1. Freddie Highmore Isn’t Just the Star—He’s Also a Producer and Writer
Highmore doesn’t just play Dr. Murphy—he’s deeply involved behind the scenes. As an executive producer and occasional writer, he helps craft the very stories he brings to life, ensuring Shaun’s journey feels authentic and layered.
2. Hill Harper Brings Real-Life Inspiration to His Role
Before playing Dr. Andrews, Hill Harper was already a respected activist and author. He’s written several books about self-empowerment and mentorship, experiences that inform his grounded and compassionate portrayal of a leader in medicine.
3. The Show Highlights Representation in Medicine
At its core, The Good Doctor is about inclusion and representation. Shaun Murphy’s character challenges preconceived notions about autism, while Harper’s Dr. Andrews adds dimension as a Black leader in a high-powered medical environment. Together, their characters help open conversations that matter far beyond the screen.
4. It’s Based on a South Korean Series
Many fans don’t realize The Good Doctor originated in South Korea before being adapted for U.S. television. The American version has since carved out its own legacy, thanks in large part to Highmore’s unforgettable performance.
5. The Medical Accuracy Is Remarkably Strong
While it’s still a TV drama, the show consults with real medical professionals to ensure surgeries, diagnoses, and patient experiences feel credible. This attention to detail keeps the stories engaging without straying too far from reality.
6. Freddie Highmore Almost Said No
After years on Bates Motel, Highmore considered stepping back from TV. But the script for The Good Doctor convinced him otherwise, and the result has been one of his most defining roles yet.
7. Hill Harper Values the Show’s Impact on Young Viewers
Harper has spoken about the letters and conversations he’s had with young fans, many of whom feel inspired to pursue medicine after watching the show. For him, that real-world impact is as rewarding as the acting itself.
8. The Cast Chemistry Is Authentic
Highmore and Harper share a genuine respect for one another, which translates to their characters’ complex relationship on screen. This authenticity makes the hospital drama feel more like a lived-in world rather than just scripted television.
9. It’s a Global Phenomenon
The Good Doctor isn’t just a hit in the U.S.—it’s been broadcast in over 200 territories worldwide. Highmore and Harper’s performances have helped the show resonate across cultures, making it one of the most beloved medical dramas of the last decade.
Whether you’re already a loyal viewer or just thinking of scrubbing in for your first episode, Freddie Highmore and Hill Harper remind us that The Good Doctor is more than a hospital drama—it’s a story about empathy, resilience, and breaking barriers. And if these nine facts prove anything, it’s that the heart of the show is just as strong as its brains.
