Freddie Highmore has built an impressive career, seamlessly transitioning from one critically acclaimed role to another. As he takes a walk down memory lane, the talented actor reflects on how he quickly moved from playing the troubled yet brilliant Norman Bates in Bates Motel to embodying the genius and compassionate Dr. Shaun Murphy in The Good Doctor. Now, as he looks toward the future, Highmore envisions what his next big venture could be.
For five seasons, Bates Motel gave audiences a chilling yet deeply emotional reimagining of Norman Bates, one of cinema’s most iconic characters. Highmore’s portrayal of the psychologically complex young man earned him widespread praise, proving his ability to take on dark and demanding roles. When the show concluded in 2017, many wondered what would come next for the British actor. Surprisingly, he didn’t take a long break—just months later, he was back on TV screens in an entirely new light.
The Good Doctor presented Highmore with an entirely different challenge. As Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, he once again demonstrated his remarkable ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters. The transition from Norman to Shaun was not an easy one, but Highmore embraced the challenge. His performance struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, turning The Good Doctor into one of television’s most successful medical dramas.
Reflecting on this rapid career shift, Highmore admits that it was a whirlwind experience. Moving from the psychological thriller of Bates Motel to the emotionally uplifting yet complex world of The Good Doctor required a complete mental reset. However, he credits both roles with shaping him as an actor and giving him the confidence to explore even more diverse opportunities in the future.
Now, as The Good Doctor continues to enjoy success, many are curious about what Highmore’s next move will be. Will he take on another TV drama? Explore more film opportunities? Or perhaps step behind the camera as a director or writer? Given his talent and versatility, the possibilities seem endless.
One thing is certain—whether it’s another deep, emotionally complex role or a completely unexpected genre, Freddie Highmore’s next venture is bound to be just as captivating as the ones that came before.
