After seven successful years, ABC’s acclaimed medical drama, The Good Doctor, is preparing to scrub out for the last time. Fans are eager to know, When Is The Good Doctor On for its final season? This article provides all the essential details about the return of The Good Doctor for Season 7, including the premiere date, how to watch, cast updates, and why this beloved series is coming to an end.
The Good Doctor, starring Freddie Highmore as the extraordinary Dr. Shaun Murphy, has been a staple of Monday night television on ABC since its debut in 2017. Consistently ranking as a top series in the coveted 18-49 adult demographic for its 10 p.m. slot, the show, inspired by a South Korean series, has captivated audiences with its compelling characters and heartwarming storylines set in San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital. Alongside Highmore, the series boasts a talented ensemble cast including Chuku Modu, Richard Schiff, Will Yun Lee, Fiona Gubelmann, Christina Chang, Paige Spara, Bria Samoné Henderson, and Noah Galvin.
However, in January 2024, ABC delivered the news that season 7 would be the final chapter for The Good Doctor. Freddie Highmore, who has become synonymous with Dr. Shaun Murphy, expressed his gratitude in a statement reported by Variety, stating, “Playing Dr. Shaun Murphy has been an immense privilege and one of the most remarkable and rewarding experiences of my life.” He continued to thank the cast, writers, crew, and fans for their support throughout the journey.
Executive producers Liz Friedman and David Shore admitted that the cancellation was not their decision, but they are committed to providing a meaningful conclusion to Shaun Murphy’s story. Friedman hinted at the enduring nature of Dr. Murphy’s journey, telling TV Insider, “Shaun Murphy’s adventures are going to continue in the universe. I just have to find a way to close the sense that he’s doing it for us.”
Adding to the changes, the anticipated spin-off series, The Good Lawyer, was also canceled before it could even air, leaving fans with a bittersweet feeling about the Good Doctor universe.
When Will The Good Doctor Season 7 Air?
For those wondering, when is the good doctor on for its final season? Mark your calendars: The Good Doctor Season 7 premiered on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. Moving from its usual Monday slot, the final season airs on Tuesday nights, following The Rookie.
Episodes are also available for streaming on Hulu the following day, giving viewers multiple options to catch each episode. The season premiere, titled “Baby, ” sees Shaun and Lea navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood while Shaun returns to the hospital to face a complex case involving two infants.
How to Watch and Stream The Good Doctor Season 7
To watch The Good Doctor on its premiere night, tune into ABC on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT. If you prefer streaming, Hulu subscribers can catch new episodes on demand starting the next day.
For viewers who have cut the cord, ABC is accessible through various TV streaming services. These include Hulu+ Live TV, DirectTV, and fuboTV. Hulu+ Live TV even offers a seven-day free trial for those looking to watch The Good Doctor live without cable.
How Many Episodes in The Good Doctor Season 7?
Season 7 of The Good Doctor is shorter than previous seasons, with a reported 10 episodes. TV Line reported that the reduced episode order is a result of production delays caused by the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes in 2023. This makes Season 7 the shortest season of The Good Doctor since its inception, adding a poignant touch to its final run.
The Good Doctor Season 7 Cast: Who’s Returning and Who’s New?
Most of the main cast from Season 6 are back for the final season, ensuring familiar faces for the farewell. Fans can expect to see Freddie Highmore, Richard Schiff, Christina Chang, and Paige Spara reprising their roles.
Returning Cast Members:
- Freddie Highmore as Dr. Shaun Murphy
- Richard Schiff as Dr. Aaron Glassman
- Christina Chang as Dr. Audrey Lim
- Paige Spara as Lea Dilallo
- Fiona Gubelmann as Dr. Morgan Reznick
- Will Yun Lee as Dr. Alex Park
- Bria Henderson as Dr. Jordan Allen
- Chuku Modu as Dr. Jared Kalu
- Noah Galvin as Dr. Asher Wolke
However, there are notable cast changes. Hill Harper (Dr. Marcus Andrews) will not return as he is focusing on his U.S. Senate campaign. Brandon Larracuente (Dr. Daniel Perez) has also exited the series, with reports suggesting his character’s storyline reached its natural conclusion.
New Additions:
Season 7 welcomes Kayla Cromer as Dr. Charlene “Charlie” Lukaitis, a third-year medical student with Autism Spectrum Disorder and a long-time admirer of Dr. Shaun. Wavyy Jonez joins as Dr. Dominick ‘Dom’ Hubank, another third-year med student with aspirations to serve his community as a family doctor.
Departing Cast Members:
- Hill Harper as Dr. Marcus Andrews
- Brandon Larracuente as Dr. Danny Perez
Why Is The Good Doctor Series Ending?
The decision to conclude The Good Doctor with Season 7 came from ABC. Executive producer Liz Friedman revealed to TV Insider that “ABC told us it was time to end it.” Despite the network’s decision, Friedman expressed gratitude for the advance notice, allowing the creative team to craft a satisfying and meaningful finale for Dr. Shaun Murphy’s journey.
Disney Television Group President Craig Erwich told Deadline that the network wanted “to give David and his team the opportunity to write a proper ending to this series,” acknowledging its popularity and importance to ABC viewers. He promised a “heartfelt farewell” to Dr. Shaun Murphy and the series.
As The Good Doctor begins its final season, fans can anticipate an emotional and compelling conclusion to the stories of Dr. Shaun Murphy and his colleagues at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital. Make sure to tune in on Tuesdays to say goodbye to this impactful medical drama.
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