For over a decade, Freddie Highmore has been a familiar face on television, most notably as the brilliant but socially challenged Dr. Shaun Murphy on The Good Doctor. Now, with that chapter closed, the actor takes a bold leap into darker, riskier territory. His latest project, The Assassin, is a tense British crime thriller that has already generated buzz for its sharp writing, stylish visuals, and the striking departure it represents for Highmore’s career.
A Story of Secrets and Survival
The six-part series, now streaming on Prime Video, transports viewers to a picturesque Greek island where Highmore’s character, Edward Green, seeks out his estranged mother, Julie—played by Keeley Hawes. Julie, however, is no ordinary retiree. Once a contract killer, she is forced out of her quiet life when her violent past resurfaces, placing both mother and son in immediate danger. What begins as a fractured family reunion quickly spirals into a high-stakes chase across Europe, blending thriller suspense with intimate drama.
Highmore Beyond the Stethoscope
Highmore doesn’t just star in the series; he also steps behind the camera as an executive producer. Working alongside acclaimed writers Harry and Jack Williams (The Missing, The Tourist), he helped shape The Assassin into a lean, stylish drama that refuses to follow a predictable path. His portrayal of Edward—an ordinary man caught up in extraordinary circumstances—marks a significant shift from his previous roles. Where Shaun Murphy was defined by empathy and precision, Edward is defined by uncertainty, fear, and a reluctant courage that grows as the story unfolds.
A Stellar Supporting Cast
The series boasts an impressive supporting lineup including Gina Gershon, Jack Davenport, Richard Dormer, and Alan Dale. Their performances deepen the intrigue, creating a layered world where danger lurks around every corner. The Greek backdrop, captured in vivid cinematography, contrasts sunlit beauty with the shadowy menace of Julie’s past, giving the show an atmospheric quality that critics have praised.
Critical Reception
Early reviews highlight the series’ blend of tension and wit. The Guardian hailed it as “stylish, tightly written, and absurdly entertaining,” while Empire praised the chemistry between Highmore and Hawes as the beating heart of the drama. Some critics have noted that the series occasionally leans into familiar thriller tropes, but most agree it succeeds in delivering edge-of-your-seat entertainment with emotional heft.
A New Era for Highmore
For Highmore, The Assassin represents more than just a new role—it’s a reintroduction. After years of portraying characters defined by kindness or vulnerability, he now takes on a world marked by violence, betrayal, and survival. The transition underscores his versatility and his desire to explore fresh creative directions.
The Assassin is fast-paced, emotional, and unapologetically gripping. It cements Freddie Highmore as not only a talented performer but also a risk-taker eager to redefine himself. Fans of Highmore’s earlier work may be surprised by this darker turn, but it is precisely that surprise which makes The Assassin one of the most compelling new shows of the year.
