ABC has confirmed that its hit medical drama The Good Doctor will return for a seventh season, continuing the story of Dr. Shaun Murphy and the doctors at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital. The renewal marks another milestone for the series, which has consistently drawn a loyal audience since its debut in 2017.
A Reliable Ratings Performer
Despite the growing challenges of network television in the streaming era, The Good Doctor has remained a steady ratings performer for ABC. The show has built a devoted fan base not only in the U.S. but also internationally, thanks to its compelling storytelling and global distribution. The drama regularly pulls in strong numbers in the coveted 18–49 demographic, making its renewal a logical move for the network.
According to ABC executives, Season 6 showcased the resilience of the series, tackling complex medical cases alongside deeply personal character arcs. “The Good Doctor continues to touch hearts and spark important conversations,” said Craig Erwich, President of ABC Entertainment. “We are thrilled to see Dr. Shaun Murphy’s journey continue in Season 7.”
What to Expect in Season 7
Details of the upcoming season remain tightly under wraps, but fans can expect further exploration of Dr. Murphy’s personal and professional evolution. Portrayed by Freddie Highmore, Shaun has grown from a brilliant yet inexperienced surgical resident into a confident attending surgeon navigating the challenges of medicine and personal relationships.
Season 6 ended with several unresolved storylines, including developments in Shaun’s marriage to Lea (Paige Spara) and shifting dynamics within the hospital staff. These threads are expected to carry into the new season, offering viewers both emotional depth and high-stakes medical drama.
Cast and Creative Team
Freddie Highmore will return as both star and executive producer, continuing his dual role in front of and behind the camera. Series creator David Shore, known for his work on House, remains at the helm, ensuring the drama maintains its balance of medical authenticity and character-driven storytelling. The ensemble cast, including Hill Harper, Richard Schiff, Fiona Gubelmann, Will Yun Lee, and Christina Chang, is also expected to reprise their roles, though official casting announcements have yet to be confirmed.
A Global Impact
Beyond ratings success, The Good Doctor has achieved cultural resonance by bringing autism representation to mainstream television. Shaun Murphy’s perspective as a surgeon with autism spectrum disorder has earned both praise and critique, sparking discussions about inclusion in media and workplaces. The show has been lauded by advocacy groups for its efforts, even as it continues to face calls for more authentic representation.
As ABC prepares its fall schedule, The Good Doctor remains a cornerstone of its scripted lineup. The series’ renewal underscores the network’s commitment to balancing established hits with new programming in a competitive broadcast landscape.
For viewers, Season 7 promises not just more medical intrigue, but also the emotional storytelling that has made the show a standout in ABC’s drama portfolio. While premiere dates have not yet been announced, production is expected to begin later this year, with new episodes likely to air in early 2026.
