Good Doctor Star Hill Harper Steps Away from Show for U.S. Senate Campaign

In a move that might not come as a total surprise, Hill Harper, known for his role as Dr. Marcus Andrews on the hit show “The Good Doctor,” has announced his departure from the series. His reason? He’s shifting gears to pursue a career in politics! After six seasons of bringing the character to life, Hill Harper won’t be returning for Season 7.

Back in July, Harper made waves when he declared his intention to run for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Michigan Democrat Debbie Stabenow. His competition? U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin (D) in next year’s election.

According to Harper’s spokesperson via TV Line, the actor-turned-politician is deeply committed to addressing what he sees as a crisis in American democracy, where government often caters to the wealthy and powerful, leaving everyday folks struggling to make their voices heard. He’s dedicated to changing that, running for the U.S. Senate as an active union member to amplify the voices of working people in Congress.

“Hill Harper feels strongly that there is a crisis in American democracy — too often, government only works for the rich and powerful while the rest of us struggle to find a voice.”

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With Harper’s exit from the show, “The Good Doctor” will only have two original cast members remaining – series star Freddie Highmore as Dr. Shaun Murphy and Richard Schiff as Dr. Aaron Glassman, who has been Shaun’s mentor.

For fans of the series, Harper’s departure may not come as a complete shock, considering that his character resigned as the hospital’s president in the Season 6 finale, making for a seamless exit.

Before Harper ventured into the world of acting, he was a lawyer with degrees from Brown University and Harvard Law. During his time at Harvard, he formed a friendship with none other than Barack Obama. He also honed his acting skills as a member of Boston’s Black Folks Theater Company.

As part of his campaign, Harper proudly emphasizes that if elected, he would be the only U.S. senator who is a member of SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union. Interestingly, the union recently ended a strike, paving the way for the return of scripted television and marking Harper’s departure from the acting scene.

Prior to his notable role on “The Good Doctor,” Harper spent nine years as Dr. Sheldon Hawkes on “CSI: NY.” He has graced multiple film and television projects since his acting career began in 1993.

Despite Harper’s exit, “The Good Doctor” is set to return for a strike-shortened seventh season, with approximately 10 episodes. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 10, at 10 pm ET on ABC for the show’s new night!