The shocking decision to kill off a major character in The Good Doctor Season 7 has sparked intense discussion. This move not only aimed to confront antisemitism head-on but also, unfortunately, reinforced a contentious trope.
The Controversial Death of Asher Wolke
Context of Asher’s Death
Halfway through its final season, The Good Doctor made a bold move by killing off Asher Wolke, a character at the intersection of Judaism and the LGBTQ+ community. His death, intended to highlight the senselessness of hate crimes, ended up stirring debate over the perpetuation of the “Bury Your Gays” trope.
The Message Sent
Asher’s storyline was a poignant exploration of identity and acceptance. However, his tragic end has raised questions about the message this sends regarding LGBTQ+ representation and the struggle against hate.
Antisemitism and LGBTQ+ Representation: A Delicate Balance
Highlighting Antisemitism
Asher’s death was a direct confrontation with rising antisemitism. By portraying a senseless act of violence, The Good Doctor aimed to spotlight this growing issue. Yet, this narrative choice also intersected with another significant concern.
The “Bury Your Gays” Trope
The timing of Asher’s demise, just as he embraced his Jewish and gay identities fully, has been criticized for falling into the harmful “Bury Your Gays” trope, suggesting that happiness for LGBTQ+ characters is often short-lived or tragic.
Alternatives to Asher’s Storyline
Possible Divergent Narratives
The piece explores how The Good Doctor could have addressed antisemitism and LGBTQ+ representation without resorting to killing Asher. Suggestions include focusing on societal attitudes or providing Asher with a different, non-lethal exit from the series.
The Impact of Representation
The discussion extends to the importance of representation in media, emphasizing how storylines can both challenge and unfortunately, at times, reinforce negative stereotypes.
Conclusion: A Reflective Opportunity
The article concludes by reflecting on the mixed messages sent by Asher’s death. While aiming to highlight serious issues, the decision also underscores the ongoing challenges in storytelling around diversity and representation.
