Are you sick of stereotypes about autistic people in TV shows and movies? Us too.
With so many inspiring neurodivergent people who have helped shape the world, we all deserve better representation in the media.
A well-written character with autism celebrates strengths and positive qualities while highlighting the unique experiences of living with a disability. Luckily, there are shows you can binge-watch right now that feature complex, loveable, nuanced autistic characters.
Why Representation Matters
Storytelling is a powerful tool for sharing knowledge, connection, and empathy. Books, movies, TV shows, and video games all influence our understanding of the world around us and the people we share it with. Well-written autistic characters can be incredibly validating and relatable for people who feel alienated in a neurotypical world.
Thoughtful representation is important. Even fictional content can affect viewers’ understanding of autism. And while there are some prevalent stereotypes that show up in mainstream media, there are lots of creators out there who are telling more nuanced stories that include people on the spectrum—and even casting autistic actors to play them.
8 Shows With Autistic Characters to Binge-Watch Now
We’ve put together a list of eight shows that feature diverse characters on the spectrum, including some portrayed by neurodivergent actors:
Atypical (2017-2021)
Image via Sony Pictures
- Watch it On: Netflix
- Character: Sam Gardner
A comedy about a teenage boy with autism who decides he wants to get a girlfriend. It follows his quest for independence and how it affects his family.
Everything’s Gonna Be Okay (2020-2021)
Image via Wikipedia
- Watch it On: Hulu, Disney+
- Character: Matilda
This comedy series tells the story of a family dealing with tragedy and overcoming hardship together. One of the sisters, Matilda, is autistic and is played by an actress who is also on the spectrum. Her character deals with loss, dating, and other coming-of-age issues.
Heartbreak High (2022-Ongoing)
Image via IMDB
- Watch it On: Netflix
- Character: Quinni
A teen comedy-drama that focuses on a group of friends trying to navigate the love, sex, and heartbreak in high school. One of the main characters, Quinni, is autistic and portrayed by Chloé Hayden—an actress with autism and a vocal disability advocate.
Young Royals (2021-2024)
Image via IMDB
- Watch it On: Netflix
- Character: Sara Eriksson
This is another teen drama/romance with a neurodivergent character who is played by an actress with autism. With so few representations of female autism in media, it’s great to see more nuanced roles played by people who know what it’s like to live life on the spectrum.
Community (2009-2015)
Image via IMDB
- Watch it On: Peacock (Free), YouTube, Apple TV, Prime Video (from $1.99)
- Character: Abed Nadir
A comedy centered on a diverse friend group at a community college. This one stands out because while they poke fun at Abed’s lack of social awareness, he is accepted as he is. His strengths are celebrated, his special interests are indulged, and his quirks are very endearing.
The A Word (2016-2020)
- Watch it On: Disney+
- Character: Joe Hughes
A family learns that their youngest son has autism. The dramatic series follows their ups and downs in reckoning with the diagnosis and dysfunctional personal lives.
Boston Legal (2004-2008)
Image via IMDB
- Watch it On: Hulu, Disney+
- Character: Jerry Esperson
This award-winning series is a legal comedy-drama and spin-off of The Practice. Jerry is a main character that shows up in the second season and presents a complex view of neurodivergence.
Little Voice (2020-)
Image via IMDB
- Watch it On: Apple TV
- Character: Louie King
A comedy-drama series that follows a young singer trying to make it in the New York music scene. Her brother, Louie, has a special interest in Broadway and a mind full of dates and details. The actor who plays him, Kevin Valdez, is also on the spectrum and felt the role was incredibly relatable.
Learn More About Representation and Self-Advocacy
There is always room for improvement in media representation, but writers, actors, and creators are already working to bring more awareness to the experiences of people with autism.
There’s more media out there to enjoy; some film festivals have even started highlighting neurodivergent filmmakers and stories. There are also plenty of best-selling books by authors with disabilities you can check out.
If you are looking for more support in living your best life, California’s Self-Determination Project can provide flexible funding for your goals. NeuroNav is your source for accurate information, one-on-one support, and guidance in navigating the world of possibilities for disability benefits.
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