Unexpected Twist in 'The Good Doctor': Noah Galvin's Asher Meets Tragic End in a Hate Crime, Raises Awareness
'The Good Doctor' took a bold turn as fans were left stunned by the unexpected demise of a key character in a recent episode. The show's portrayal of a hate crime storyline sparks important conversations and sheds light on critical issues.
Cast The Good Doctor Shares Support Hotline After Major Character Gets Killed Off in a Hate Crime
Paige Spara, Freddie Highmore, Richard Schiff, Fiona Gubelmann, Will Yun Lee as, Christina Chang, Chuku Modu, and Bria Samoné Henderson. Disney/Jeff Weddell
Fans of The Good Doctor are still shocked by the recent episode where Dr. Asher Wolke, played by Noah Galvin, was tragically killed in an antisemitic attack that aired on Tuesday, April 2nd.
ABC added a message at the end of the episode. The message urged viewers to visit splcenter.org if they have experienced hate crimes or want to learn more about how to combat hate.
The episode began with Asher trying to reconnect with his Jewish roots. He then participated in a wedding ceremony for one of his patients. Afterwards, he drove the rabbi back to his synagogue, which had been vandalized by two individuals.
Asher bravely confronted the vandals, revealing his identity as a Jewish and gay man. He warned them to leave and threatened to call the police. Despite the initial retreat of the trespassers, they later returned and tragically struck Asher on the head, causing a fatal injury. Meanwhile, Asher's boyfriend, Jerome (played by Giacomo Baessato), was seated at a nearby restaurant, unknowingly waiting to propose.
Noah Galvin and David Attar The Good Doctor Shares Support Hotline After Major Character Gets Killed Off in a Hate Crime
Noah Galvin, 29, joined The Good Doctor in season 4. Viewers saw Asher's transformation from an atheist who left the Hasidic community to someone rethinking religion before his unexpected death.
Fans had a strong reaction to Asher's murder in the latest episode of "The Good Doctor." One person shared their surprise on social media, saying, "I am rarely shocked by a TV series but #thegooddoctor ending tonight was totally unexpected, and brutal. It actually shook me up a bit."
Another social media user questioned the decision to kill off Asher so close to the series finale. They expressed their frustration, stating, "Absolutely no point in killing off Asher this close to the series finale. What was [showrunner David] Shore thinking? I'm not sad, I'm pissed."
The Good Doctor, a TV series that first aired in 2017, tells the story of a team of doctors at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital. Recently, the show was renewed for its final season, which started airing this year.
Noah Galvin The Good Doctor Shares Support Hotline After Major Character Gets Killed Off in a Hate Crime
"ABC informed us that it was their decision. While it wasn't unexpected, it was still disappointing. I believe there were more stories we could have explored," shared coshowrunner Liz Friedman with The Wrap in February. "However, I am grateful that they informed us in advance so we could conclude the show and wrap up Shaun Murphy's [Freddie Highmore] story in a way that feels right for the audience and gives him a proper ending."
Friedman also shared her thoughts on the impact she hoped the show would have, stating, “I’m gay and when I was younger, everyone talked about tolerance a lot. But now, I believe that tolerance alone is not enough. What we truly need is acceptance and understanding.”
She elaborated, saying, “The key to societal progress lies in accepting and understanding others; in welcoming people into your life who may be different from you, who may not fit the stereotype of a 'normal' person, or who may push you outside of your comfort zone. This kind of openness is incredibly valuable.”
The Good Doctor airs on ABC Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET.
Editor's P/S:
The tragic death of Dr. Asher Wolke in "The Good Doctor" episode has left viewers reeling. The senseless antisemitic attack not only cuts short the character's journey but also highlights the devastating consequences of hate crimes. The show's decision to incorporate such a poignant and heart-wrenching storyline serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against prejudice and discrimination.
Asher's character arc, from an atheist who left the Hasidic community to someone rethinking his faith, resonated with many viewers. His murder so close to the series finale has raised questions about the show's direction and the impact it will have on the remaining characters. However, the show's commitment to raising awareness about hate crimes and promoting acceptance and understanding is commendable and aligns with the show's overall message of empathy and compassion.
