After seven heartfelt seasons, The Good Doctor is coming to an end—and no one is feeling the weight of that goodbye more than Freddie Highmore. The British actor, who has portrayed Dr. Shaun Murphy since the series premiered in 2017, recently opened up about his emotional farewell to the character and the show that became a defining part of his career.

Highmore’s performance as Shaun, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, has been widely praised for its depth, sensitivity, and authenticity. But for the actor, the magic of The Good Doctor lies not in the grand medical cases or dramatic twists—but in the quiet, subtle moments. “The show has always lived in these tiny little nuances,” Highmore said in a recent interview. “That’s what made it special to me. It was never about big gestures—it was about the everyday bravery of someone trying to connect with the world.”

Throughout its run, the show broke barriers in how it portrayed neurodiversity on screen. Highmore took the responsibility seriously, working closely with consultants to ensure an honest and respectful portrayal of Shaun’s experience. “I’ve learned so much playing Shaun,” he said. “Not just about medicine or autism—but about empathy, resilience, and the importance of truly listening to people.”

As the final season wraps up, fans are preparing to say goodbye to a character who challenged stereotypes and inspired millions. For Highmore, it’s a bittersweet ending. “It feels like the right time,” he admitted. “But that doesn’t make it easier. These characters, this cast and crew—they’ve been my family for years.”

And while The Good Doctor is concluding, its legacy will live on in the hearts of fans who saw themselves in Shaun Murphy. “If the show helped even one person feel seen, understood, or less alone,” Highmore said, “then it was all worth it.”

As we bid farewell to The Good Doctor, we’re reminded that sometimes the most powerful stories are the quietest ones—the ones that live in the tiny little nuances.