ABC network recently announced that The Good Doctor’s upcoming seventh season, set to premiere on February 20, 2024, will be its last. This news aligns with the conclusion of another long-running drama, Station 19, also slated to wrap up with its seventh season.
The Good Doctor, a joint venture between Sony Pictures Television and ABC Signature, has been a standout show for ABC, drawing in millions of viewers since its debut. The series, which stars Freddie Highmore as the brilliant but socially challenged surgeon Dr. Shaun Murphy, has received acclaim for its unique storytelling and compelling character development. Highmore, who also serves as an executive producer, has been praised for his portrayal of a doctor with autism and savant syndrome, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the medical drama genre.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, in a heartfelt statement, co-showrunners David Shore and Liz Friedman, alongside executive producer Erin Gunn, expressed their gratitude for the incredible journey:
“The Good Doctor has been a once in a lifetime opportunity, but it’s time to say goodbye. We are incredibly proud of the work we’ve done and the message we’ve been privileged to be a part of. We look forward to giving our fantastic fans, the truly extraordinary Freddie Highmore, the rest of our talented actors and friends, and the best crew in the business the series ending that you all deserve. Thank you, Sony; thank you, ABC; thank you all.”
Freddie Highmore shared his thoughts on the conclusion of this chapter of his career:
“Playing Dr. Shaun Murphy has been an immense privilege and one of the most remarkable and rewarding experiences of my life. I will always be grateful to David, Liz, and Erin as well as the hugely talented — and lovely — cast, writers, and crew who made this show possible. Caring deeply is what got us here. Thank you to Sony and ABC, and to everyone who has watched along at home. With love from Vancouver … tequila, stat!”
The Good Doctor’s Farewell: Honoring a Show that Redefined Portrayals of Autism
Over its six-season run thus far, The Good Doctor has maintained a strong viewership, averaging 6.24 million viewers in Nielsen’s seven-day ratings for the 2022-23 season. These figures do not account for the significant boost from streaming, which often adds a substantial percentage to the total viewership of network series.
The Good Doctor has not only been a ratings success but also a significant cultural touchstone. It has sparked conversations about diversity and representation in television, particularly regarding neurodiversity and the portrayal of individuals with autism. The show stands out for its ability to offer a nuanced and empathetic perspective on autism, challenging entrenched stereotypes.
The series, based on a Korean show, boasts a roster of executive producers including Daniel Dae Kim, Thomas L. Moran, David Hoselton, Peter Blake, Jessica Grasl, Garrett Lerner, Mike Listo, Shawn Williamson, David Kim, and Sebastian Lee.
The Good Doctor departs, having forged a path of innovative storytelling and establishing a profound bond with its viewers. As the final season approaches, ABC and the creators are gearing up to present a tribute that encapsulates the spirit of the series. The Good Doctor has offered a unique glimpse into human life, highlighting empathy, comprehension, and relentless excellence amidst challenges.
