Freddie Highmore, best known for his seven-year run as Dr. Shaun Murphy in The Good Doctor, is stepping into an entirely new world — and a much darker one. The acclaimed British actor is set to lead The Assassin, an upcoming Amazon Prime Video thriller that has already begun generating major buzz in both Hollywood and the UK television scene.
Highmore stars as Edward, a young man whose life takes an unexpected turn when he reconnects with his estranged mother, played by Keeley Hawes (Bodyguard, Line of Duty). But Edward’s mother isn’t just any woman — she’s a retired assassin, forced back into the deadly world she once left behind. When a shadowy figure from her past resurfaces, Edward finds himself drawn into a dangerous game of survival that blurs the line between family loyalty and moral corruption.
Filmed across Greece, London, and other striking European locations, The Assassin promises a gripping blend of suspense, emotional storytelling, and stunning visuals. The series, directed by BAFTA-winner Martin Campbell (Casino Royale), is set to premiere globally in July 2025, marking Highmore’s most ambitious role since leaving The Good Doctor.
Speaking about his new project, Highmore revealed that the decision to join The Assassin came at a time when he was actively seeking to challenge himself. “I was drawn to the story because it’s about identity, secrets, and how far we go for the people we love,” he said in an interview. “It’s a thriller, yes — but it’s also deeply human.”
Hawes, who co-stars as his mother Julie, praised Highmore’s intensity and subtlety on set. “He brings so much thoughtfulness to every scene,” she shared. “There’s this quiet emotional undercurrent in his performance that keeps you watching, even when he’s not speaking.”
Critics who have seen early footage describe The Assassin as a sharp departure from the traditional spy genre, combining moments of humor and warmth with high-stakes action. The series aims to balance explosive sequences with intimate character work, something that aligns perfectly with Highmore’s acting strengths.
Industry insiders believe The Assassin could redefine Highmore’s trajectory. After more than a decade of playing emotionally complex but morally grounded characters — from Bates Motel’s tortured Norman Bates to The Good Doctor’s compassionate Shaun Murphy — this new project pushes him into murkier, morally gray territory.
“This is Freddie like you’ve never seen him before,” one Amazon executive said. “He’s fearless, he’s unpredictable, and he’s completely in control of the screen.”
As anticipation builds ahead of its release, The Assassin is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most anticipated thrillers — and possibly the role that solidifies Freddie Highmore’s evolution from television prodigy to full-fledged leading man.
