For most actors, wrapping up one intense role and diving headfirst into another would require time—time to reset, to decompress, to find the rhythm of a new character. But Freddie Highmore isn’t most actors. The British star revealed that he had just three days to transition from playing Norman Bates in A&E’s Bates Motel to stepping into the lead role of Dr. Shaun Murphy in ABC’s medical drama The Good Doctor.
“I didn’t really have much of a break at all,” Highmore shared in a recent interview. “One moment I was finishing the final scenes of Bates Motel, and three days later, I was on the set of The Good Doctor.”
The shift was monumental. In Bates Motel, Highmore spent five seasons exploring the dark, chilling descent of Norman Bates, a character plagued by psychological torment and spiraling violence. It was a demanding role that showcased his ability to capture complexity and vulnerability in a deeply unsettling way.
Then came Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome. The character required an entirely different kind of preparation—one rooted in research, empathy, and sensitivity. “It was a complete 180,” Highmore admitted. “Norman and Shaun couldn’t be more different, and that was both the challenge and the appeal.” Despite the daunting turnaround, Highmore managed to deliver a performance that resonated with audiences almost immediately. The Good Doctor debuted in 2017 to strong ratings and critical praise, cementing Highmore’s reputation as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. His portrayal of Shaun was not only convincing but also groundbreaking in its representation of autism on network television.
Industry insiders point to Highmore’s work ethic and adaptability as key factors in his seamless transition. Known for his meticulous preparation, the actor immersed himself in medical terminology and collaborated closely with consultants to ensure authenticity in every scene. At the same time, he dedicated himself to learning about the autism spectrum through discussions with experts and advocates.
The back-to-back projects also highlight a unique aspect of Highmore’s career: his ability to reinvent himself without losing credibility. From child stardom in Finding Neverland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to darker adult roles in Bates Motel and now the inspiring resilience of Shaun Murphy, Highmore has consistently proven he can embody vastly different personas.
Reflecting on that intense period of transition, Highmore says he wouldn’t change a thing. “It was exhausting at times, but also exhilarating. As an actor, you dream of opportunities like this—roles that are so distinct yet equally rewarding.”
Seven seasons into The Good Doctor, Highmore’s three-day leap of faith has more than paid off. The show remains one of ABC’s most reliable dramas, and his performance continues to strike a chord with viewers around the world. For Highmore, the whirlwind transition was less about timing and more about trust—in the story, in the character, and in himself. And if his career trajectory is any indication, it’s that rare ability to adapt quickly and fully that keeps him in a league of his own.
