Season 8 of The Good Doctor approaches, changes are happening both on and off screen. With longtime characters evolving, new doctors joining the team, and others saying goodbye, the hospital is once again in transition.

Returning Favorites

Freddie Highmore returns as Dr. Shaun Murphy, and so does Paige Spara as Lea. The couple’s journey into parenthood will be central to the new season.

Other returning cast members include Hill Harper, Fiona Gubelmann, and Will Yun Lee. Each character will face new medical and personal challenges—especially as hospital policies shift.

Who’s Leaving?

There’s strong speculation that Dr. Park (Will Yun Lee) may be exiting mid-season. The actor has been linked to a Netflix project, and sources say the writers are planning a respectful send-off. It’s unclear whether his exit will be permanent or open-ended.

New Faces at St. Bonaventure

Season 8 welcomes new characters including Dr. Eva Santiago, a trauma surgeon played by Anya Benitez, and Nate Walker, a mysterious new resident portrayed by Jason Genao.

Producers promise these new additions will stir the pot, push boundaries, and challenge the way Shaun sees the world.

The cast changes may be bittersweet, but they keep the show fresh and unpredictable—just like life in a real hospital.