Long before Freddie Highmore became the star of The Good Doctor and one of the most respected actors of his generation, he faced a crossroads that could have changed his career forever. Unlike many stage parents who push their children toward Hollywood, Highmore’s family initially encouraged a very different path — one that placed education above acting.
Highmore, who first rose to prominence as a child actor in Finding Neverland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was already considered a rising star before his teenage years. Yet his parents, both grounded in the entertainment world, remained cautious. His father, Edward Highmore, had worked as an actor, while his mother, Sue Latimer, was a talent agent who represented stars like Daniel Radcliffe. With firsthand knowledge of the challenges and volatility of the industry, they were determined not to let fame overshadow their son’s education.
Rather than propelling him full force into Hollywood, they made it clear that academic achievement should come first. Their philosophy proved wise. Highmore went on to attend Highgate School in London, excelling in nearly every subject, and later studied at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he earned a double first in Spanish and Arabic. It was during these years that he gained invaluable life experience outside of acting, from internships in Kuwait and Madrid to mastering multiple languages.
This decision to prioritize education was not merely parental guidance; it also reflected Highmore’s own maturity and sense of agency. Unlike many young actors who struggle to transition into adulthood, he deliberately chose to step back from the industry to focus on his studies. The pause gave him perspective and ensured that when he returned to acting, he did so not out of necessity but out of genuine passion for the craft.
The results speak for themselves. After completing his degree, Highmore returned to television with Bates Motel, a series that allowed him to display a darker, more nuanced side of his talent. Later, as Dr. Shaun Murphy in The Good Doctor, he not only starred in the hit medical drama but also took on roles behind the scenes as a writer, director, and producer. His career trajectory shows a balance of artistry and intellect rarely seen in Hollywood.
By encouraging their son to pursue education before fully committing to acting, Highmore’s parents gave him the foundation to thrive both personally and professionally. Today, he credits much of his grounded approach to the values instilled during those formative years. In an industry often characterized by excess and burnout, his path serves as proof that sometimes the best way forward is to take a deliberate step back.
Highmore’s story is not just about talent or fame — it is about foresight, discipline, and the importance of having the right guidance at the right time. In choosing knowledge before notoriety, he gained both.
