Not since Grey’s Anatomy has a US medical drama made such an impact on Australian TV.
The Good Doctor has stolen hearts around the nation – and leading man Freddie Highmore is revelling in its success. The British actor, who plays Dr Shaun Murphy, tells TV WEEK why the drama series is unlike any other.
“Shaun is a character we haven’t seen before,” Freddie, 26, explains.
“It’s the idea of training someone who is on the [autism] spectrum, while he’s navigating this world, and learning and helping others at the same time. That’s what sets this show apart.”
In the highly anticipated second season, Shaun is set to face the consequences of his actions after making a crucial mistake during surgery. The young medic is now in danger of losing his job.
Freddie Highmore is back for season two of The Good Doctor.
“He’s going to have to prove all over again to a new president that he’s worthy of remaining at the hospital,” Freddie says.
Elsewhere, Dr Aaron Glassman (Richard Schiff) has a long road to recovery after being diagnosed with brain cancer.
For Freddie, who penned episode one of the season, the storyline arc has been a challenge on and off screen.
“[Creator] David Shore offered me the chance to write the first episode of the year, so I feel incredibly fortunate,” he says.
“I first found a desire to write during filming of Bates Motel [the TV series he starred in from 2013-2017].”
The autistic medic has to fight to keep his job in season two.
Meanwhile, as the hospital bids farewell to Dr Kalu (Chuku Modu), two more characters are waiting in the wings this season. Lisa Edelstein (of House fame) arrives as Dr Blaize, while Paige Spara returns as Shaun’s love interest, Lea.
“Lisa has such an important role in the show,” Freddie says.
“And Paige brings such a great energy to the set. But it’s not necessarily happy-ever-after for Shaun and Lea.”
Freddie hints he has a few ideas in mind for his beloved alter ego.
“When I wrote episode one, I wondered what the hospital would look like with Shaun at the helm,” he says, chuckling.
“Shaun being the president seems like such an interesting end point [to the series], so that’s exciting to imagine.”
