Common Sense Media Review
By Jenny Nixon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Romance, blood in medical drama about doctor with autism.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Good Doctor
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 38 parent reviews
Parents say this show initially offered a compelling narrative that showcased the journey of an autistic doctor, winning over viewers with its inspirational message and strong character development. However, many reviews express disappointment in the increasing focus on sexual content and mature themes in later seasons, which detracts from its family-friendly appeal and original medical focus, prompting some to question the appropriateness for younger audiences.
- inspirational message
- sexual content concerns
- positive autism representation
- strong character development
- family-friendly appeal
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 61 kid reviews
Kids say the show offers a compelling portrayal of an autistic surgical resident navigating the medical field, emphasizing positive messages about inclusion and perseverance. However, it has garnered mixed reactions due to its explicit themes involving surgical violence, sexual references, and emotional storylines, leading many to recommend it for older teens over younger viewers.
- positive portrayal
- mature themes
- explicit content
- emotional depth
- age recommendation
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In THE GOOD DOCTOR, Dr. Shaun Murphy (Freddie Highmore)—an aspiring surgeon with autism and savant syndrome—leaves his isolated life in the country for a job at San Jose's prestigious St. Bonaventure Hospital. He finds himself working alongside colleagues who are either curious about and befuddled by his atypical social behaviors—like fellow residents Claire (Antonia Thomas) and Jared (Chuku Modu)—or openly hostile, like the attending surgeon who brusquely informs Shaun that he has no intention of ever letting him actually perform surgery in his operating room. Shaun's only real advocate is a mentor from childhood, hospital president Dr. Aaron Glassman (Richard Schiff). As Shaun gains respect at work—and romantically pursues IT technician Lea Dilallo (Paige Spara)—other medical professionals come and go, each leaving their mark on the hospital and on the other characters.
Is It Any Good?
While it may follow the same contrived formula that so many hospital dramas have relied on, this show is elevated by Highmore's thoughtful performance and a stellar supporting cast. At first, The Good Doctor relies on the cliche of a "quirky professional who's bad with people but great with medicine"—someone who's nearly always a White male professional to boot, as in show creator David Shore's last medical outing, House. But Shaun's relationships quickly expand, and other fascinating characters get their turns to develop and shine, from tough-as-nails Dr. Audrey Lim (Christina Chang) and overachiever Dr. Morgan Reznick (Fiona Gubelmann) to the wise but playful Dr. Jordan Allen (Bria Henderson), among so many more. Like many long-running dramas, the show's handling of tricky topics such as disability, race, gender, and sexuality improve over time, even if it does usually go for easy answers in the pursuit of feel-good viewing. But what starts as a simple premise—a doctor with savant syndrome fights to be seen in the medical field—turns into the more engaging efforts of a broader, powerhouse cast. Viewers will quickly get lured into the difficult, complicated, funny, and loving relationships that build the foundation of this solid drama.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about diversity in The Good Doctor. How does the show champion the idea that our differences make us stronger? In what ways does the series still perpetuate existing cliches?
Specifically, how do you feel about the show's portrayals of autism? Are some characters more stereotypical than others? What areas of Dr. Murphy's character feel more nuanced, and which areas feel cliched? Are there similarities or differences between The Good Doctor's portrayals and the autistic people you might know in real life?
How does this show compare to other medical dramas you've seen? Do you have a favorite in the genre? What aspects of medical dramas appeal to you?
How does the show tackle ideas of faith and religion? Do the show's depictions of atheism, Christianity, and Orthodox Judaism seem realistic or stereotypical?
How do characters demonstrate compassion and communication? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 25, 2017
- Cast : Freddie Highmore , Richard Schiff , Hill Harper , Antonia Thomas
- Network : ABC
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : STEM
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion
- TV rating :
- Award : Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee
- Last updated : December 25, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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