The series finale of ABC’s beloved medical drama, “The Good Doctor,” delivered its share of emotional moments and medical triumphs, but also a heartbreaking loss that resonated deeply with fans. After seven seasons of navigating complex cases and personal growth, the finale, penned by David Shore, brought both tears and a sense of closure. While Dr. Shaun Murphy, portrayed by Freddie Highmore, once again showcased his extraordinary abilities in saving a life, the episode also presented a stark reminder of life’s inevitable fragility.
The central question on everyone’s mind after the finale aired is: who died on “The Good Doctor”? The answer, which brought a wave of sadness to long-time viewers, is none other than Dr. Aaron Glassman, Shaun’s mentor and father figure, played by Richard Schiff. Glassman’s battle with brain cancer, a storyline revisited from the first season, reached its poignant conclusion in this final episode.
Dr. Aaron Glassman’s Story Comes to an End
Dr. Glassman’s journey has been integral to “The Good Doctor” since its inception. He was the president of San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital who championed Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome. Their relationship evolved from professional to deeply personal, with Glassman becoming a crucial support system and father figure for Shaun.
In a cruel twist of fate, Glassman’s brain cancer, which was initially diagnosed and seemingly cured in Season 1 thanks to Shaun’s relentless efforts, returned. This recurrence was revealed in the penultimate episode, setting the stage for a heart-wrenching farewell in the finale.
Executive producer Liz Friedman highlighted the thematic duality of the finale: “The finale presented one case where the solution was found due to Shaun’s refusal to give up, and one case where Shaun needed to accept what he couldn’t help.” This perfectly encapsulates the emotional core of the episode, contrasting Shaun’s successful fight to save Dr. Claire Browne with his inability to save Glassman.
Claire Browne’s Life Saved, Contrasting Glassman’s Fate
Adding to the dramatic tension, Dr. Claire Browne (Antonia Thomas), a beloved original cast member, returned for the final two episodes seeking treatment. She was diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering a tumor while working in Guatemala. Shaun found himself facing two critical cases simultaneously: saving Claire and confronting the reality of Glassman’s terminal condition.
While Shaun wrestled with finding a medical solution for Glassman, echoing his past success in Season 1, he eventually realized the futility of medical intervention this time. However, his unwavering determination was channeled into saving Claire. Despite the FDA denying emergency use of an experimental treatment, Shaun was prepared to risk his career to administer it to Claire.
In a powerful scene mirroring the pilot episode where Glassman passionately defended Shaun’s hiring, Shaun declared his intention to treat Claire, even at the cost of his medical license. Glassman, in a final act of mentorship and love, stepped in to administer the unapproved treatment himself, protecting Shaun and reinforcing their bond until the very end.
A Farewell Without a Funeral, A Legacy in a Eulogy
The finale consciously avoided a traditional death scene or funeral for Dr. Glassman. Instead, it opted for a more symbolic and emotionally resonant farewell. A poignant montage shows Shaun and Glassman on a carousel, mirroring a scene from Season 1 where they discussed Glassman’s initial diagnosis. The imagery shifts to Shaun alone on the carousel, then finally with his wife Lea and their children, visually representing Glassman’s absence and the continuation of life.
The episode then jumps ten years into the future. Shaun, now Chief of Surgery, delivers a TED Talk dedicated to Glassman. This TED Talk serves as a eulogy, celebrating Glassman’s profound impact. The audience is filled with familiar faces from St. Bonaventure, including a healthy Claire Browne with her family.
During his talk, Shaun emphasizes Glassman’s most important lesson: “When you touch one life, you don’t just touch one life. You touch every life that life touches.” The screen behind him displays names of patients Shaun saved, all attributed to Glassman’s influence. Notably, Claire’s name is the last to appear, highlighting her survival as part of Glassman’s enduring legacy.
Shaun’s tribute extends beyond words. He announces The Dr. Aaron Glassman Foundation for Neurodiversity in Medicine, a lasting testament to his mentor’s belief in him and his commitment to inclusivity.
The End of a Chapter, But Not the Story
The “Good Doctor” finale concludes not with definitive closure, but with a sense of ongoing legacy. Shaun’s voiceover at the end reflects on Glassman’s gift: “Because of Dr. Glassman, I have many friends, and I have a family. And I have two televisions.” This simple yet heartfelt statement encapsulates the profound personal growth Shaun experienced under Glassman’s guidance.
While “The Good Doctor” series has concluded, the finale suggests that Dr. Shaun Murphy’s journey continues. As Liz Friedman stated, “In my mind, Dr. Shaun Murphy is still out there helping people and saving lives with his unique, fascinating take on things. I hope the audience feels those adventures are still happening. We just don’t get to see them every week.”
Dr. Aaron Glassman’s death marks a significant and emotional turning point in “The Good Doctor” narrative, underscoring the show’s commitment to portraying realistic and often heartbreaking aspects of life and medicine. While viewers mourn the loss of this pivotal character, the finale ultimately celebrates his enduring impact on Shaun and the countless lives he indirectly touched.
