When Freddie Highmore signed on to portray Dr. Shaun Murphy in The Good Doctor, he knew he was taking on a challenge unlike any he had faced before. Playing an autistic surgeon with savant syndrome required sensitivity, research, and heart. But seven seasons later, as the series prepares to conclude, it’s clear that Highmore didn’t just meet the challenge—he transformed it into one of the most meaningful roles of his career.
And now, as the final episodes approach, the actor is reflecting on the experience—and revealing the very sweet reason why he’s most proud of the show. “It’s the way people felt seen,” Highmore says simply. From its very first episode, The Good Doctor dared to center a character whose worldview was different, who navigated the world with both extraordinary skill and profound social challenges. Highmore’s portrayal of Dr. Shaun Murphy wasn’t just technically brilliant—it was deeply human. And it offered something rare: authentic representation for neurodiverse individuals in mainstream media. Highmore has always approached the role with humility, careful never to speak over the voices of those actually living with autism. “It was never about trying to speak for everyone,” he’s said. “It was about listening, learning, and doing justice to Shaun’s story.”
The response from viewers, especially those on the spectrum and their families, has been overwhelming—and deeply moving for the actor. “I’ve received letters and met people who’ve told me that seeing Shaun gave them hope,” Highmore shares. “That it helped them understand their child better, or that it made them feel less alone. That’s why I’m proud. That’s what really matters.”
He remembers one encounter in particular, with a young boy who was on the spectrum. The child was non-verbal but lit up when he saw Highmore. His parents explained that The Good Doctor was one of the few shows he watched with joy—and that Shaun had become his hero. “That moment stayed with me,” Highmore admits. “Because it reminded me that this show isn’t just fiction. It’s connection. It’s comfort. It’s validation.”
Over the years, Shaun Murphy has grown from a surgical resident who struggled to connect with his colleagues into a confident, compassionate doctor, husband, and soon-to-be father. Watching that evolution has been rewarding for fans, but it’s been just as meaningful for Highmore. “He’s taught me so much,” he says. “About persistence, about honesty, about embracing who you are even when the world pushes back.” Highmore, who also served as a producer and occasional director on the series, was deeply involved in shaping Shaun’s journey. He worked closely with the writers and consultants to ensure that the character’s development was authentic and respectful.
“He was never meant to be perfect,” Highmore explains. “He was meant to be real. And I think that’s what people connected with. Shaun wasn’t a symbol. He was a person—with fears, flaws, and triumphs.”
In a landscape where many shows are criticized for tokenism or superficial portrayals of neurodivergent characters, The Good Doctor stood out. It took the time to build Shaun’s world—to explore his relationships, his career, his setbacks, and his victories. And throughout it all, Highmore’s performance remained grounded, layered, and deeply compassionate.
But for all the awards buzz and critical acclaim, it’s not the industry recognition that matters most to him. It’s the quiet emails, the late-night tweets, the families who come up at events just to say thank you. “That’s what I’ll carry with me,” Highmore says. “The knowledge that maybe, in some small way, we helped someone feel a little less misunderstood.”
With the series finale fast approaching, emotions are high. Highmore admits that saying goodbye to Shaun won’t be easy. “This character has been with me for so long. He’s changed how I see the world,” he reflects. “And I know I’ll miss him. I already do.” But even as he prepares to move on to new roles and creative projects, Highmore feels a sense of peace about how The Good Doctor is ending. “We’re going out with love. That’s the best way I can describe it,” he says. “Love for the character, love for the fans, and love for the journey.” Freddie Highmore is proud of The Good Doctor—not because it was a ratings hit or a global phenomenon. Not because of the awards or the longevity. He’s proud because the show mattered.
