Over the course of its multi-season run, The Good Doctor has delivered countless memorable storylines, unforgettable character arcs, and emotionally charged medical cases. The show, centered around Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, has often been praised for its heart, depth, and unapologetic portrayal of emotional and ethical dilemmas within the medical field. While several episodes like the pilot “Burnt Food” or the dramatic “More” from Season 1 often grab headlines and rewatch status, there are several hidden gems — episodes that didn’t attract as much buzz but still hold tremendous emotional and narrative power. These underrated episodes reflect some of the best writing, character exploration, and subtle storytelling the series has to offer.
One such episode is “Islands: Part One” from Season 1. What initially appears to be a simple detour in the storyline turns into a foundational moment in Shaun’s emotional journey. It’s the episode where he first truly connects with Lea, who would go on to become the love of his life. Their spontaneous road trip showcases Shaun outside the hospital, experiencing joy, confusion, and liberation in new environments. The vulnerability he displays while stepping out of his comfort zone is portrayed with nuance, making this episode a quiet turning point in his personal life.
Another underrated masterpiece is “Mutations” from Season 2. While the primary case focuses on a teen facing a rare genetic disease, the heart of the episode lies in Claire’s emotional confrontation with her past and her troubled relationship with her mother. Antonia Thomas delivers a restrained yet powerful performance, allowing viewers to see beyond her character’s usual composed demeanor. The blend of a medically compelling case with a deeply personal subplot elevates the episode beyond its surface plot.
“Quarantine: Part Two” from Season 2 is often overshadowed by the explosive tension of Part One, but it carries the real emotional weight of the arc. The chaos of the lockdown slowly settles into raw personal moments, including Shaun’s intense sensory overload and the heartbreaking decisions faced by other doctors. The episode highlights the cost of heroism, the fragility of life in crisis, and the sacrifices that medical professionals must often make without warning.
“Inseparable” from Season 3 features a powerful case involving conjoined twins who face a life-altering decision. The emotional bond between the twins mirrors the emotional tension between Shaun and Lea, who are also navigating the complex web of intimacy and independence. This episode shines not just for its medical ingenuity but for the way it reflects broader emotional truths about love, loss, and identity.
Then there’s “Fractured,” also from Season 3, a midseason episode that explores the increasing strain in Shaun and Carly’s relationship. The tension is palpable as Shaun’s emotional connection to Lea causes ripples in his romantic life. Carly’s confrontation is raw and grounded, and the episode forces Shaun to confront feelings he’s not yet ready to articulate. It’s a delicate, heartbreaking look at how love doesn’t always follow a clean path — especially when neurodiversity is part of the dynamic.
In Season 4’s “Decrypt,” the plot centers around a tech-savvy patient who teaches the doctors a lesson in both digital warfare and trust. It’s not a traditional emotional story, but it cleverly weaves ethical questions about privacy, security, and control into the narrative. Shaun’s interactions with the patient — who is just as socially awkward and brilliant — give him a mirror to his own internal battles.
Another overlooked gem from Season 4 is “Not the Same,” where Shaun, now in a more senior role, struggles to teach a new group of residents. His frustration and difficulty in communicating expectations are played with subtle intensity. The episode beautifully shows his evolution from learner to teacher, and how leadership doesn’t always come naturally — especially for someone whose communication style is nontraditional.
