After six incredible seasons, The Good Doctor has bid its final farewell, leaving fans emotional and reflective.
At the heart of the series was Freddie Highmore, who played the brilliant yet vulnerable Dr. Shaun Murphy. In a recent interview, Highmore opened up about the show’s emotional ending, sharing his candid thoughts on what it meant to him and the legacy it leaves behind. For Highmore, the ending was as emotional for the cast and crew as it was for the fans. “It’s always difficult to say goodbye to a character and a show that has been such a big part of your life,” he admitted. “But at the same time, there’s something really beautiful about ending it on such a poignant note.”
The finale, which centered on Shaun navigating one of the most challenging moments of his career and personal life, struck a deep chord. Highmore reflected on how the story brought Shaun’s journey full circle, capturing the essence of what made the character so beloved. When asked about the most meaningful part of the finale, Highmore highlighted the show’s commitment to authenticity. “What I’ve always appreciated about The Good Doctor is how it never shied away from showing the struggles alongside the triumphs,” he explained. “The ending was a perfect reflection of that balance. It wasn’t just about tying up loose ends—it was about celebrating Shaun’s growth while acknowledging the challenges that still lie ahead.”
Highmore also praised the writers for crafting an ending that felt true to the heart of the series. “There’s a tendency to go overboard with finales, to make them bigger and flashier,” he said. “But this one felt honest, and that’s what made it so powerful.” Taking on the role of Dr. Shaun Murphy was more than just another acting job for Highmore—it was a transformative experience. He described how playing a character with autism deepened his empathy and understanding. “It’s been a privilege to step into Shaun’s shoes,” he said. “I’ve learned so much from him, not just as an actor but as a person. Shaun’s resilience, his kindness, his ability to see the world differently—it’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
Highmore also expressed gratitude to the fans who supported the show over the years. “The love and connection people felt with Shaun and his journey have been overwhelming,” he shared. “It’s a reminder of the impact storytelling can have.”As he moves on from The Good Doctor, Highmore is optimistic about the future, both for himself and for the stories yet to be told about people like Shaun. “I hope the show has paved the way for more representation and understanding,” he said. “There’s still so much work to be done, but I believe this was a step in the right direction.”
Reflecting on the final moments of the series, Highmore summed it up best: “That felt really beautiful. It was a goodbye, but also a celebration of everything we’ve achieved together.” While fans may no longer tune in to see Shaun and the team at St. Bonaventure every week, the legacy of The Good Doctor and Freddie Highmore’s unforgettable performance will continue to resonate for years to come.
