The Good Doctor (2017)

The Good Doctor consistently portrays LGBTQ+ characters with dignity and complexity. Key characters like Dr. Asher Wolke have affirming arcs, and the show depicts supportive relationships and respectful handling of diverse identities, including bisexuality and transgender experiences, without resorting to harmful stereotypes or negative framing.

The Good Doctor features transgender characters in multiple episodes, consistently portraying them with dignity and respect. The medical staff affirms their identities and provides empathetic care. While characters may face external challenges like family acceptance or medical complications, the narrative frames these as external obstacles, maintaining a supportive and validating stance towards transgender lives.

The lead character, Dr. Shaun Murphy, is an adaptation of Park Si-on from the original South Korean series. Park Si-on was canonically Korean, while Dr. Murphy is portrayed as white, constituting a race swap for the central character.

The show consistently portrays Christianity as a source of comfort, ethical guidance, and community for many characters and patients. While medical science sometimes conflicts with religious beliefs, the narrative frames these as complex ethical dilemmas rather than condemning the faith itself.

Islam is portrayed respectfully, highlighting cultural and religious considerations in healthcare, such as modesty, dietary restrictions, or family involvement. The show focuses on accommodating individual adherence to faith within medical contexts.

Judaism is depicted with respect, emphasizing the importance of tradition, community, and specific religious laws in medical decision-making. The narrative aims to understand and accommodate these practices within a healthcare setting.