Highmore was born on February 14, 1992, in Camden, London. His early interest in acting was sparked by his family’s connections to the entertainment industry—his father, Edward Highmore, was an actor, and his mother, Sue Latimer, is a talent agent. It wasn’t long before Highmore began making appearances in British television, but it was his role as Peter Pan in the 2003 film Finding Neverland that first brought him significant recognition. His portrayal of the young boy who inspired J.M. Barrie’s famous character garnered widespread praise, marking the beginning of what would become an extraordinary career.
After Bates Motel concluded, Highmore transitioned to a completely different role in The Good Doctor, where he plays Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome. Shaun’s character is intelligent and highly skilled in medicine but struggles with the social interactions and emotional complexities of the world around him.
This role marked a significant shift for Highmore, as it required him to take on a character with a condition that was vastly different from his own. His performance in The Good Doctor has been praised for its depth, authenticity, and sensitivity. Highmore took great care to research autism and worked with experts to ensure that his portrayal was respectful and accurate. His portrayal of Shaun has won him numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe nomination, and has made The Good Doctor one of the most successful and beloved medical dramas on television.