The recent episode of “The Good Doctor” shocked viewers with the unexpected death of Dr. Asher Wolke, a major character in the series. The decision to kill off Dr. Wolke, portrayed by actor Noah Galvin, was prompted by both creative considerations and real-world issues. In an exclusive interview with series writer Adam Scott Weissman, the complex motivations behind this storyline are revealed, shedding light on the challenges of addressing sensitive topics such as hate crimes, LGBTQ+ identity, and antisemitism on television.
Exploring Dr. Asher Wolke’s Journey: Dr. Asher Wolke’s character arc in the series has been marked by his struggles with reconciling his Jewish identity with his queer identity. The recent episode, titled “Who at Peace,” delved into Asher’s internal conflicts as he navigated his relationship with his partner Jerome and grappled with his upbringing in the Hasidic community. Through Asher’s story, the episode addressed themes of self-acceptance, love, and identity.
The Impact of Real-World Issues: The decision to feature a hate crime targeting Dr. Wolke in the episode reflects the show’s commitment to addressing real-world issues. Weissman explains how the writers sought to raise awareness of the rise of antisemitic and anti-LGBTQ+ attacks in the United States while also crafting a compelling narrative for the character. However, the sensitive nature of the storyline required careful consideration to avoid falling into harmful tropes, such as the “bury your gays” trope.
Navigating Tropes and Tensions: Weissman acknowledges the writers’ awareness of the potential pitfalls of the “bury your gays” trope and discusses their efforts to subvert expectations and provide a nuanced portrayal of Dr. Wolke’s death. Additionally, he highlights the importance of representation in the writers’ room, noting showrunner Liz Friedman’s role in guiding the storytelling process as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Examining the Emotional Impact: The emotional resonance of Dr. Wolke’s death reverberates throughout the series, affecting both the characters and the audience. Weissman discusses the significance of Asher’s final moments and the profound impact of his realization that he can embrace all aspects of his identity. Furthermore, he previews the aftermath of Dr. Wolke’s death and its implications for the remaining characters, particularly Jerome.
The death of Dr. Asher Wolke in “The Good Doctor” serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling to address social issues and provoke meaningful conversations. Through careful consideration and thoughtful representation, the series navigates complex themes with sensitivity and depth. As the show’s final season continues, the legacy of Dr. Wolke’s character will endure, leaving a lasting impact on both the fictional world of the series and its audience.
