Season one introduces Dr. Shaun Murphy (
Freddie Highmore), a brilliant surgical graduate who also has autism and savant syndrome.
Dr. Aaron Glassman (Richard Schiff), the president of San Jose's St. Bonaventure Hospital, has known Shaun since he was 14, and suggests he be hired for his brilliance, despite his autism. Initially, Shaun is shunned by the hospital staff and made to do scut work. He struggles with social interactions, but is able to correctly diagnose patients.
Soon, his colleagues realize that he is intelligent and kind, and get along well with him. However, when someone close to Shaun makes a serious revelation, Shaun is unable to handle it.