When The Good Doctor first premiered in 2017, audiences quickly fell in love with Dr. Shaun Murphy, the brilliant surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, played by Freddie Highmore. Over the years, the medical drama has earned a loyal global following, balancing emotional storytelling with intense hospital cases. Yet, while many fans think they know everything about the show, there are surprising facts and behind-the-scenes details that even the most dedicated viewers may have missed.
1. It’s Based on a South Korean Series
Before ABC brought The Good Doctor to American audiences, the series existed in South Korea. The original version aired in 2013 and was a major hit. Actor Joo Won played the role that inspired Freddie Highmore’s Shaun Murphy. The success of the Korean drama sparked international interest, eventually leading to the U.S. adaptation we know today.
2. Daniel Dae Kim Made It Happen
Most fans recognize Daniel Dae Kim from Lost and Hawaii Five-0, but few know he was instrumental in bringing The Good Doctor to the United States. After watching the Korean version, Kim bought the rights and pitched the idea to networks. His persistence paid off when ABC picked up the series. Kim also serves as an executive producer.
3. Freddie Highmore Almost Said No
Highmore, best known as Norman Bates in Bates Motel, initially wasn’t sure he wanted to jump into another TV role so soon. But after reading the script and connecting with Shaun’s story, he changed his mind. Today, it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role that has earned him critical acclaim and multiple award nominations.
4. The Show Consults Real Doctors
Accuracy is essential in medical dramas, and The Good Doctor takes that seriously. The production team works with medical consultants to ensure procedures, terminology, and diagnoses are realistic. While not everything can be shown exactly as it happens in real life (for time and storytelling reasons), the show strives to stay as close to reality as possible.
5. The Set Isn’t a Real Hospital
Those convincing hospital scenes? They’re filmed on detailed sets in Vancouver, Canada. The show often uses real medical equipment to create authenticity, but the hospital is entirely built for filming purposes.
6. Freddie Highmore Has Multiple Roles Behind the Camera
Not only does Highmore star in the series, but he has also written and directed episodes. His involvement behind the camera gives him greater creative input into how Shaun’s story is told, making the character’s journey even more personal.
7. The Cast Shares a Close Bond
From Hill Harper (Dr. Marcus Andrews) to Richard Schiff (Dr. Aaron Glassman), the cast has often spoken about how much they enjoy working together. Their chemistry on screen mirrors their friendships off screen, contributing to the emotional depth of the show.
8. Representation Matters
One of the show’s biggest impacts is its representation of autism and savant syndrome. While not without criticism, The Good Doctor has sparked conversations about inclusivity and the need for more neurodiverse characters in television. Many viewers with autism or their families have expressed how meaningful it is to see Shaun on screen.
9. The Show Has Global Popularity
While it’s produced in North America, The Good Doctor is broadcast in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Its universal themes of empathy, resilience, and human connection resonate with audiences everywhere.
10. The End Is Coming Sooner Than You Think
After years of success, ABC announced that Season 7 would be the show’s last. Fans are bracing themselves for an emotional farewell as Shaun’s journey reaches its conclusion. The final episodes are expected to deliver both heart-wrenching and heartwarming moments.
The Good Doctor is more than just a medical drama; it’s a story about perseverance, acceptance, and the power of seeing the world differently. From its South Korean origins to Freddie Highmore’s incredible performance and the show’s global impact, there’s so much that fans may not know about the series. As the show prepares to close its final chapter, one thing is certain: Dr. Shaun Murphy has left an unforgettable mark on television history.
