Freddie Highmore is 25, but already, the London-based actor has established himself as a stellar talent in television and films, and he stays so busy that he hardly has a free moment between projects. He made some time on January 16 to drop-in and catch up with Ellen DeGeneres on her show. It's well known that Ellen loves old memories, and the video clips as evidence, but Freddie Highmore was out to prove that maturity makes a big difference in 13 years. He gave up his “party trick” and offered the favorite daytime host a proper lesson in Arabic, even if she wasn't the most willing of students.
No more nasal flute
Ellen is a little like that nosy auntie with her guests. She's nurturing and warm, but also eager to share moments that any star would rather forget. Freddie Highmore noted that his first visit on her show was “the first time I'd done one of these things on my own,” and he seemed to be a bit remorseful for being “left to my own devices” at such a tender age.
Ellen DeGeneres could hardly wait to relive the moment when 12-year-old Freddie Highmore honored her by playing his purple and green flutes to the tune of “When the Saints Go Marching In” in honor of her native New Orleans-- with his nostrils. Ellen jumped in with an enthusiastic march, and while Freddie appreciated the spirit, he admitted that this particular talent never lasted as requested party entertainment, so he gave it up by the time he was 16.
Transported to distant dialects
Freddie Highmore devoted himself to becoming a learned young man at University, as well as pursuing his passion for acting, writing, directing, and producing. When Ellen mentioned her struggle with learning Spanish, so much so that she is having problems “retaining just one word,” her guest kindly obliged her request to speak in Arabic, which he studied along with Spanish.
He has also added French to his repertoire.
Leading off with “something for you to learn,” he spoke, “I'm from the United States of America” with flawless Middle Eastern nuance. DeGeneres was lost after “I’m from,” but nonetheless applauded the effort of Highmore, saying, “I just wanted to hear you say something.”
Kansas needs to come through
The actor clearly has no trouble mastering the American accent, either, particularly that of one Dr.
Shaun Murphy from Casper, Wyoming. The character embodied by Highmore every Monday has certainly struck a chord for acceptance and inclusion. Freddie is happy that the role speaks to “anyone who is different or doesn’t fit in” as much as it does to those with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Learning in unique ways should never limit the potential for a real and full life. The challenge is to embrace that it is always worth the extra effort.
Freddie Highmore is riding a wave of critical and popular acclaim with “The Good Doctor,” which he also co-executive produces. Apparently, only one state isn’t in the cheering section for the hit drama. The star recently received a map indicating the popularity of “The Good Doctor” by shades of blue.
Every state except for Kansas was clearly riding the azure tide. “Come on, Kansas!, Highmore implored.
Perhaps Dr. Murphy can take a detour to Kansas on the character’s next adventure. After returning from a life-changing getaway with love, Lea (Paige Spara), in Part Two of the “Islands” episode this week, Shaun Murphy resolves to stay at Saint Bonaventure hospital, realizing that he has many ways to matter to others there.
Freddie Highmore is not one to rest on his laurels. The actor is already signed on to play the title character in “Baby Face Nelson” for A & E and will be executive producer for the NBC drama, “Long Distance,” soon to be in production. This versatile star is a long way from Neverland now, but his horizons hold countless characters.
