After an impressive five-year stint as Norman Bates on *Bates Motel*, Freddie Highmore is ready for a new challenge. His next role will be in the medical drama *The Good Doctor*, which has been officially picked up by ABC for the 2017-2018 season.
The cast also includes Richard Schiff, Nicholas Gonzalez, Beau Garrett, Antonia Thomas, Chuku Modu, Irene Keng, and Hill Harper. The show is based on a South Korean format and will be executive produced by Daniel Dae Kim (of *Hawaii Five-O*) and David Shore (creator of *House*).
The Plot:
*The Good Doctor* follows 25-year-old Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, as he begins his new role at San Jose’s St. Bonaventure Hospital. Shaun’s unique condition presents challenges for the hospital’s Board of Directors, who are unsure if he’s the right fit. Despite his difficulties with communication and social interaction, Shaun possesses extraordinary medical knowledge and near-perfect recall. His talent was recognized early on by Dr. Ira Glassman, who has now hired him as part of the hospital’s team.
Dr. Glassman, who is the hospital’s President, faces the task of convincing key stakeholders that Shaun deserves the position. These include Allegra Alexis, who oversees the hospital’s budget; Jessica Preston, whose grandfather founded the hospital; and Horace Andrews, the Head of Surgery, who is wary of the potential risks Shaun might bring to his department.
Shaun’s expertise is put to the test when he successfully uses his extensive medical knowledge to save a young boy’s life. Although this achievement demonstrates his skills, Shaun’s lack of judgment poses a concern for the future. A successful surgeon must earn the trust of both patients and colleagues. The series will explore whether Shaun can effectively work alongside the demanding and skilled Dr. Neil Melendez, and collaborate with medical residents like Elle Mclean, Jared Unger, and Claire Brown.
