'The Good Doctor' news: Series receives mixed reviews

A poster for the ABC drama series "The Good Doctor" Facebook/TheGoodDoctorABC

ABC's new drama series "The Good Doctor" has already aired four episodes and so far, it has received mixed reviews from critics and fans.

One particular feedback from a best-selling author and also an individual diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder stood out. Kenny Magro commended the show, the creators, and the actors for their effort to spread awareness about the neurodevelopmental disorder. Magro praised Freddie Highmore, who plays the lead role as Dr. Shaun Murphy, for his accurate portrayal of an individual diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD. Magro also noted that the speech delivered by Murphy about saving lives in the first episode provided a good perspective on autism. He said, "It was refreshing to see Dr. Murphy have the opportunity to show his ability to care for others."

Despite this comment, "The Good Doctor" only got 34% rating from Rotten Tomatoes and 53% from Metacritic. Some of the comments mentioned there is something lacking in the entire ensemble and story balance.

So far, the show revolves around the mission of San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital's surgical team to save lives. Main story elements have already been introduced.

One area that has not been tackled in the series. In the pilot episode, Murphy gave a statement on why he should be part of the hospital in the first place. He shared his painful past of losing his pet bunny and his brother. Murphy stated that both went to heaven and that he was not able to save them. There are no other references to God or religious belief in the series, but that particular scene was notable and a turning point for the show.

"The Good Doctor" just aired its fourth episode and fans are already focused on the next one. Meanwhile, fans are looking forward to the fifth episode, titled "Point Three Percent," in which a boy who resembles Murphy's deceased brother Steve is brought to the hospital. It will air on Monday, Oct. 23, at 10 p.m. EDT on ABC.

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