In 2019, Freddie Highmore’s performance on The Good Doctor earned him a nomination for the Saturn Award for Best Actor on Television, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most dynamic actors of his generation. The recognition came from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, an organization known for honoring the most innovative and compelling performances across television and film.
What made this nomination particularly remarkable was that The Good Doctor does not fit neatly within the science fiction or fantasy genres typically recognized by the Saturn Awards. Instead, the Academy acknowledged the emotional power and cultural resonance of Highmore’s portrayal of Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome. By honoring Highmore, the Academy highlighted the way his performance transcended genre boundaries and connected with audiences around the world.
Since its debut in 2017, The Good Doctor has become more than just a medical drama. Through Highmore’s nuanced acting, the series explores broader themes of perseverance, empathy, and acceptance. His character’s struggles and triumphs inside and outside the operating room have resonated with millions, sparking conversations about representation of neurodiverse individuals on screen.
Highmore approached the role with both sensitivity and precision, avoiding stereotypes while creating a character that feels authentic and deeply human. His ability to balance Shaun’s vulnerabilities with his brilliance as a surgeon is what made the character unforgettable—and what led to the recognition from the Saturn Awards.
While Highmore did not win the award that year, the nomination itself was a milestone in his career. It came on the heels of his 2018 Golden Globe nomination and his People’s Choice Award win, continuing a streak of critical acclaim that positioned him as one of television’s most respected leading men. For Highmore, who had already built a strong reputation from his earlier work on Bates Motel, this acknowledgment reinforced his seamless transition into a new, career-defining role.
The nomination also underscored the influence of The Good Doctor in the broader television landscape. Although not a genre series in the traditional sense, the show’s emotional storytelling, coupled with Highmore’s powerful performance, expanded the boundaries of what kind of work could be celebrated by the Saturn Awards. It proved that compelling storytelling and meaningful representation could resonate across all categories, regardless of genre.
For fans, the Saturn Award nod was a proud moment that validated what they already knew: Freddie Highmore’s portrayal of Shaun Murphy was something special. For the industry, it was a recognition of his artistry, range, and impact.
Ultimately, the 2019 Saturn Award nomination was not just a personal achievement for Highmore—it was also a victory for The Good Doctor, a show that had broken through cultural barriers to tell a story that matters. It cemented his status as more than just a talented actor; it established him as a transformative performer whose work continues to inspire and influence audiences worldwide.
