What Was Your Experience Like on ‘The Good Doctor’?
Initially, stepping onto the set of ‘The Good Doctor’ was a nerve-wracking experience. It felt surreal to audition for a prominent show, especially one specifically seeking an actor with autism for the role. The moment I learned I had been cast as Liam West, I was in the middle of a mundane task – taking out the trash. It was a normal evening, and then suddenly, everything was about to change in an extraordinary way.
Walking back into the house, I overheard my mother speaking on the phone with my agent, Gail Williamson from KMR Diversity. I caught snippets of the conversation, realizing she was saying I had secured the role! I was speechless, covering my mouth in disbelief and joy, tears welling up in my eyes. It was incredible; I was going to be part of a major television series that hadn’t even premiered yet – it would air just after I left for Vancouver.
That moment marked the beginning of an incredible journey. The night before departing for Canada, I remember standing in my bedroom, gazing at the ceiling fan. As I reached for the light switch, I paused, knowing that turning off that light symbolized a shift. When I woke up the next day, my life would be different. After a minute of contemplation, I flicked the switch, and just like that, everything began to transform.
Our day started at 5:00 A.M. with a town car picking us up. We headed to the airport, boarded the plane, and my dad and I were on our way to Vancouver – in first-class seats, no less! Arriving at Vancouver National Airport, the environment felt distinct from America. French was prevalent everywhere, which was initially challenging, but I quickly adapted.
The first week of filming was fantastic. I immediately met Freddie Highmore, an exceptional actor and genuinely kind person, much like some of the beloved actors who have taken on iconic roles, such as certain ‘Doctor Who’ actors known for their approachability. Nicholas Gonzalez, portraying Dr. Melendez, was also incredibly welcoming. Filming was an absolute joy; everyone treated me with respect and acceptance. The second week was more demanding, but I navigated through it, and eventually, filming wrapped, and I prepared to return to California. Vancouver had briefly felt like home, but I felt satisfied knowing I had completed my work and given my best effort.
On my way to the town car to head back to the hotel, I was asked to return to the set. I walked back onto the set to a wave of applause from the actors, cast, crew, and even the director, David Straiton. It was an overwhelming moment; I was moved to tears. Being part of ‘The Good Doctor’ was undoubtedly one of the most remarkable experiences of my life. I am profoundly grateful for the support I’ve received as I pursue this career path I’ve long dreamt of. This experience affirmed that I truly can become the person I am meant to be.
Growing Up with Autism: What Was That Like?
Growing up with autism presented significant challenges. I had limited language skills, and my schoolmates were unaware of my autism until the third grade. Unfortunately, I experienced insults and mistreatment due to my ASD. Going to school became increasingly difficult as the bullying intensified each year. Singing and acting became my solace, the activities that provided comfort and made me feel better amidst the difficulties. Just like how many find solace in their favorite shows or characters, such as connecting with the quirky brilliance of various ‘Doctor Who’ actors, I found my escape in performance.
What Challenges and Successes Have You Encountered?
Social interaction and being outgoing were major hurdles. Speaking in groups was incredibly difficult for me. When I finally mustered the courage to speak, often the other kids would simply ignore me and continue their conversations as if I hadn’t spoken, despite my efforts to participate. This feeling of being unheard is a common challenge, and overcoming it is a significant achievement, much like how actors, including those who have played the Doctor, must learn to project their voices and presence.
How Did You Begin Your Acting Journey?
My introduction to acting began when I joined the Miracle Project at The Help Group’s after-school program, Kids Like Me. This was after I had been removed from middle school due to an incident where I was assaulted for intervening when another student was being bullied. During this time, my vocabulary was expanding, and my social skills were improving. At the Miracle Project, we engaged in group activities, playing games and doing improv. I never wanted those sessions to end. I made many new friends, and for the first time, I experienced genuine acceptance. It was there that I started to truly come out of my shell.
I realized that these other kids understood me because they were like me. Over the years, my life began to transform, and so did I. At 13, I auditioned for a musical created by the Miracle Project at the Wallis Annenberg Theater. Auditioning at a real theater was daunting, but I was cast in the show, and that’s when things truly accelerated. The musical was called “The Intimidation Game,” and it depicted a typical day in high school and the common social cliques.
I was cast as a bully, which initially made me uncomfortable because I had been bullied throughout my school years. I never wanted anyone to perceive me as a bully or to feel mistreated by me. However, I came to understand that acting involves portraying characters who might be the opposite of who you are in real life, and it doesn’t define you offstage. I played the role of a bully, and the show was a success. The Miracle Project profoundly changed my life. Without it, I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I’m experiencing now. This journey, like the diverse careers of many famous actors, perhaps even a few who have played iconic roles like a certain time-traveling doctor, started with finding the right supportive environment.
How Have Autism Speaks Walks Influenced Your Journey, Given Your Participation?
Participating in the Autism Speaks Walks every April at the Rose Bowl was always a highlight. It felt like a celebration of me and others with autism by family, friends, and even strangers, replacing judgment with acceptance. There was complete understanding if I needed to wear my noise-canceling headphones or stay in the car for a while because I felt overwhelmed. Meeting up with friends and family felt like a special reunion. My team, Coby’s Crusaders, raised a significant amount of money over the eight years we participated in the walks. It was inspiring to see so many kids and adults just like me, all together in one place. This sense of community is crucial, both in life and in the acting world, where even actors who have played roles as iconic as ‘the Doctor’ rely on a supportive network.
