One of the most powerful and emotional arcs in The Good Doctor revolves around Dr.
The reason behind the emotional weight of Glassman’s story starts with the actor who portrays him, Richard Schiff. Behind the camera, Schiff himself has experienced some of the challenges that Glassman faces on screen, which made the portrayal all the more meaningful. Schiff explained that his own health scare, which involved a major surgery and the uncertainty of recovery, gave him a deeper understanding of the emotional complexity involved in portraying a character fighting for his life. This added a level of vulnerability to his performance, as he could draw on his personal experiences to make Glassman’s journey more real and relatable.
“The most powerful performances come from a place of honesty,” Schiff said. “When I played Glassman going through his struggles, I didn’t have to act. There was a part of me that had been there already. It gave the storyline a rawness that felt so important for the audience.” On-screen, Glassman’s relationship with Shaun has been central to his character’s arc. As a mentor, father figure, and unwavering support system, Glassman has guided Shaun through some of his toughest challenges. Schiff’s personal connection to the role enhanced the authenticity of that mentorship, making it all the more emotional for viewers.
The father-son dynamic between Glassman and Shaun took on new meaning, as Schiff’s own experience with illness and recovery gave him a profound appreciation for the bonds that are formed during times of crisis. This sense of real-life authenticity seeped into his interactions with Highmore, creating moments of genuine tenderness and vulnerability that felt deeply personal.
The emotional gravity of Glassman’s storyline also lies in the way it reflects universal themes of love, loss, and the fragility of life. Through Schiff’s real-life experiences, the show was able to portray a more human and relatable depiction of illness, showing the emotional toll it takes not just on the patient, but on those who care for them. This behind-the-scenes truth has made Glassman’s story one of the most unforgettable aspects of The Good Doctor, with fans feeling an emotional connection to his journey every step of the way.
Schiff’s personal connection to his character’s struggles has made Glassman’s arc not just a storyline, but a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. As the series unfolds, the depth and authenticity of his portrayal leave a lasting impression, reminding viewers that even in the face of illness and hardship, love and support can provide the strength to carry on. In the end, the real-life parallels between Schiff’s experiences and Glassman’s storyline have elevated the emotional stakes, making his journey one of the most poignant and powerful arcs in the series.
