Ep 3. 36 Hours

Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young autistic surgeon with savant syndrome, is back in The Good Doctor season 2 episode 3, titled "36 Hours." In this episode, Shaun confronts his fear of intimacy when he develops feelings for a patient who may be dying.

It's a race against time as Shaun and the team at St. Bonaventure Hospital work to diagnose and treat a young woman, Zoe (played by guest star Samantha Marie Ware), who is having unexplained seizures. As they delve into her medical history, they discover she has a rare genetic disorder that causes her body to produce too much serotonin, resulting in a potentially fatal condition called serotonin syndrome.

As Shaun and his mentor, Dr. Aaron Glassman, work to find a treatment for Zoe, Shaun finds himself drawn to her. He begins to spend more time with her, learning about her interests and hobbies, and even staying overnight in the hospital so he can monitor her vitals.

However, as their relationship deepens, Shaun's struggle with intimacy comes to the forefront. He is afraid to express his feelings for Zoe, fearing rejection and vulnerability. Meanwhile, the hospital staff grows increasingly concerned for Shaun's well-being, as they notice he has been neglecting his own health and hygiene.

Throughout the episode, Shaun also grapples with his relationship with Dr. Carly Lever (played by Jasika Nicole). Shaun and Carly have started dating, but Shaun's feelings for Zoe make him question his compatibility with Carly. He confides in his friend and fellow resident Dr. Claire Browne (played by Antonia Thomas), who offers him advice on how to navigate his emotions.

As Zoe's condition worsens, Shaun is forced to confront his fear of losing someone he cares about. The pressure mounts as the hospital staff race against the clock to find a cure for Zoe, and Shaun must balance his personal feelings with his medical duties.

The Good Doctor season 2 episode 3, "36 Hours," is a poignant exploration of love, fear and vulnerability. With exceptional performances by Freddie Highmore as Shaun, Ware as Zoe, and the rest of the cast, this episode is a must-see for fans of the show and newcomers alike.