12 Fascinating Facts About Freddie Highmore For "The Good Doctor" Fans

Freddie Highmore, known for his role as Dr. Shaun Murphy in the popular TV series 'The Good Doctor,' has captivated audiences for decades. Starting his career in 1999 as a young boy, Highmore gained worldwide recognition for his performance as the lead in Tim Burton's "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (2005) and "The Spiderwick Chronicles" (2008). However, it was his transformative portrayal of Norman Bates in the TV series "Bates Motel" that truly showcased his versatility as an actor, running for five successful seasons until 2017.

Highmore further evolved his acting skills by taking on the role of Dr. Shaun Murphy in "The Good Doctor," based on the life of an autistic surgeon. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Highmore explained that playing Shaun Murphy allows him to explore a more optimistic and happier character compared to his role as Norman Bates. With the show renewed for a seventh season, let's dive into 12 interesting facts about the talented Freddie Highmore.

1. Building an Impressive Career as a Child Star

Highmore's journey in the entertainment industry began at a young age. He starred alongside renowned actors such as Kate Winslet and Johnny Depp in "Finding Neverland" (2004). The following year, he secured the lead role of Charlie Bucket in Tim Burton's adaptation of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." These early successes established Highmore as a rising star in the industry.

2. The Influence of Family on Career Decisions

Family played a vital role in Highmore's acting career. The decisions on which roles to take were made collectively, with Highmore considering his family's input. His mother, Sue Latimer, who happens to be his agent, provided unwavering support while ensuring his best interests were prioritized.

3. Balancing Fame and Normalcy with Education

Despite his early fame, Highmore managed to maintain a balanced life by prioritizing education. Studying and completing his studies at Highgate School allowed him to return to a sense of normalcy and foster lasting friendships. Highmore went on to earn a double first in Spanish and Arabic from Cambridge University, exhibiting his intellectual prowess alongside his acting talents.

4. Building a Connection with Helena Bonham Carter

Throughout his career, Highmore had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed actors. Helena Bonham Carter, in particular, became a recurring on-screen mother figure, starring alongside Highmore in films like "Women Talking Dirty" (1999), "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (2005), and the TV movie "Toast" (2010). Their working relationship fostered a strong bond and added to the depth of Highmore's performances.

5. Embracing Uncertainty in Acting

Highmore thrives on the ambiguity and unpredictability of the acting profession. During an interview, he expressed his enthusiasm for the unknown and the excitement of uncertain circumstances that often arise in his line of work. The element of surprise and spontaneity keeps him engaged and motivated.

6. The Intense Journey of Playing Norman Bates

Highmore's portrayal of Norman Bates in "Bates Motel" presented a unique acting challenge. Taking over an iconic character famously portrayed by Anthony Perkins required him to make the role his own. He succeeded by infusing his performance with humanity and exploring the complex nature of the troubled character.

7. Exploring New Horizons with Writing and Directing

Highmore's talents extend beyond acting. His writing journey began in 2016 when he co-wrote an episode of "Bates Motel." Venturing into directing, he made his directorial debut on the same show. With his creativity and versatility evident, Highmore has an exciting career behind the camera as well.

8. Selling Television Pilots

Fueled by his writing ambitions, Highmore has sold multiple pilots to major networks. Although some productions never came to fruition, the fact that networks have shown interest in his ideas solidifies his capabilities as a storyteller beyond the screen.

9. A Personal Milestone: Married Life

Highmore recently revealed that he tied the knot, expressing his happiness during an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live." While he didn't disclose his wife's identity, reports suggest that she is a web designer named Klarissa Munz, with whom he reportedly met at Cambridge University.

10. Proudly Representing Autism on "The Good Doctor"

Having played the role of Dr. Shaun Murphy, an autistic surgeon, in "The Good Doctor," Highmore is honored to represent the autistic community. He engages with individuals affected by autism, welcoming their feedback on the show's portrayal of the condition and strives to raise awareness and educate viewers.

11. Perfecting Portrayal through Mannerisms

To depict an accurate representation of autism in his character, Highmore delved deeply into learning about autism spectrum behaviors. His portrayal includes specific mannerisms, such as the way Shaun holds his hands, influenced by a blend of experiences from observing autistic individuals and the sterile hand positions used by surgeons.

12. Alternative Career Path: Lawyer

Despite his success as an actor, Highmore contemplated an alternate career in the field of law. Studying Arabic and Spanish at Cambridge University gave him the opportunity to explore a prospective legal path. His wide-ranging interests and formidable language skills may shape his future endeavors outside of the entertainment industry.

It's truly remarkable to witness Freddie Highmore's vast achievements and talents as an actor, writer, and possibly a future director. His dedication and versatility, coupled with his ability to balance fame with normalcy, contribute to his captivating performances on and off the screen. As Highmore's career continues to evolve, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this multitalented individual.