Savant syndrome only affects a patient’s memory capabilities, and doesn’t have an effect on other neuro-atypical symptoms, like communication issues or sensitivities to stimuli that autistic people may experience.

And while Freddie Highmore, who plays Shaun, is not autistic, the show consults with many people who are on the spectrum and employs autistic actors as guests on the show, in an attempt to keep the characters as realistic and non-offensive as possible. 

The show has been said to accurately portray Shaun’s condition, which makes it as real as it can be.

You can watch The Good Doctor on Mondays at 10 p.m. EST on ABC.