Autism At Center Of New Prime-Time TV Drama
ABC will introduce a prime-time drama this fall featuring a lead character on the autism spectrum.
The hour-long drama, “The Good Doctor,” focuses on Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome who has left his quiet life in the country to work at a prestigious hospital.
“Alone in the world and unable to personally connect with those around him, Shaun uses his extraordinary medical gifts to save lives and challenge the skepticism of his colleagues,” according to ABC.
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“The Good Doctor” is one of several new series announced by networks this week for the 2017-2018 season at the upfronts, an annual gathering where television executives pitch advertisers on their slate of upcoming shows.
In addition to “The Good Doctor,” ABC also announced new shows focusing on a magician working with the FBI, a television producer whose daughter goes missing and the story of a couple “whose marriage is reignited by their divorce,” among others.
“We’ve focused on some of the universal themes that unite us — exciting stories, relevant dramas, and of course, lots of laughs. Our goal is to focus on the unique points of view of our show creators, but make shows that have broad appeal,” said Channing Dungey, president of ABC Entertainment.
“The Good Doctor” will air on Mondays at 10 p.m. ET this fall, ABC said, though an exact premiere date has not yet been announced.
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