04/10/2025 “How Neurodiversity is Portrayed in Film and TV” By Kaylee McGrath

In Celebration of Autism Awareness Month – April 2025

Opening Statement:

The representation of neurodiversity in film and television has evolved significantly over the past several years. Recently, I stumbled across a YouTube video called “When Mermaid Characters (Unintentionally) Represent Autism” and it inspired me to write this article during Autism Awareness Month. To provide a closer look, when there were once stereotypes and one-dimensional portrayals in film and TV, we are now seeing a more authentic depiction of neurodiverse characters. This is important for viewers who seek to see themselves reflected in media, as these representations can be both supporting and empowering. Authentic portrayals support empathy, understanding, and ultimately influencing public perception. In this blog, I hope to provide current representations of neurodiversity in popular media and highlight specific shows and films that celebrate this diversity.

·       The Changing of Representation

Traditionally, individuals with neurodiverse conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other various hidden disabilities were often portrayed in basic ways. Characters were either viewed as thinkers with unique skills or as socially unskilled individuals with few emotional layers. This limited framing left out the rich and varied experiences of many neurodiverse people.

Recently, this trend is changing. More writers, producers, and actors are focusing on bringing a wider spectrum of neurodiversity to the screen. This shift is driven by a growing recognition of the importance of representation. Research shows that inclusive portrayals can lead to increased acceptance, better understanding, and higher levels of empathy among audiences.

·       What Makes Authentic Representation?

Authentic representation isn't just about featuring neurodiverse characters; it's about crafting stories that truly reflect their experiences. Here are key elements that contribute to genuine representation:

·       Diverse portrayal: A variety of neurodiverse experiences should be showcased, pushing beyond a single narrative or stereotype. For instance, the character of Matilda in "Everything's Gonna Be Okay" (an Australian production) represents a vibrant and complex individual, offering viewers insight into her unique world.

·       Involvement of neurodiverse voices: Collaborating with neurodiverse writers, directors, and actors ensures that stories resonate authentically with real-life experiences. For example, "Atypical" not only features neurodiverse characters but also includes contributions from individuals with diverse perspectives in its creative team.

·       What to Avoid: Media creators should actively avoid clichés and tired stereotypes. Doing so prevents the perpetuation of negative assumptions and helps build a more accurate portrayal of neurodiversity.

By focusing on these elements, filmmakers and storytellers can help create a more inclusive world that acknowledges neurodiversity as part of the broader human experience.

Realistic Representations: Several productions stand out for their commitment to authentic representation of neurodiversity, and I’ve listed some examples below

·       Atypical: "Atypical," a Netflix series, follows the journey of Sam, an autistic teenager seeking independence and connection. The show intertwines humor and emotional depth as Sam navigates complex family dynamics and friendships. The creators have prioritized authenticity, involving neurodiverse individuals in the writing process and ensuring that Sam's experiences resonate genuinely with audiences. In the first season, 85% of viewers rated the show positively, showing its impact on those who identify with Sam's journey.

·       The Good Doctor: The ABC drama features Dr. Shaun Murphy, a surgical resident who is autistic and has savant syndrome. Shaun’s character effectively challenges stereotypes by leveraging his extraordinary abilities in medicine while facing social challenges. The show has been praised for highlighting both the strengths and struggles of its neurodiverse characters, with a reported 90% viewership approval rating from audiences who resonate with Shaun’s character.

·       Everything's Gonna Be Okay: This Australian series brings to life the story of Nicholas, who becomes the guardian of his two teenage half-sisters after the death of their father. Matilda, one of the sisters, is a neurodiverse character portrayed with humor and sincerity. The show highlights family unity while emphasizing Matilda’s experiences, which are integral to the narrative. The series received acclaim for its authentic representation, garnering a 4.7 out of 5-star rating on several review platforms, reflecting its positive reception among viewers.

·       The Importance of Representation

Seeing neurodiverse characters represented on screen can have a powerful effect. For many individuals, this visibility combats feelings of isolation and inadequacy that can emerge from living in a world that sometimes misunderstands neurodiversity. In fact, studies suggest that increased representation contributes to greater acceptance among audiences. Additionally, authentic storytelling can educate neurotypical viewers, dismantling stereotypes and leading to a more accepting society. Unlike earlier portrayals, which often leaned toward negativity or distortion, current narratives are more uplifting, focusing on shared human experiences and the richness of diverse perspectives.

·       Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite the progress made in neurodiverse representation, significant challenges continue. Many productions still opt for neurotypical actors to portray neurodiverse roles, which often leads to missed opportunities for authentic storytelling. It is so important for the industry to continue advocating for inclusivity. Encouraging open discussions about hiring practices and the significance of authentic narratives can pave the way for more genuine representation. Initiatives like mentorship programs for neurodiverse individuals in film and television could further promote inclusivity.

Some Animation, Film, and TV Characters That Were Possibly Created by Accident (or maybe not)

·       The Little Mermaid – Character “Ariel”

·       Aquamarine – Character “Aquamarine”

·       Splash – Character “Madison”

·       Beauty and the Beast – Character “Belle”

·       Frozen – Characters “Elsa and Anna”

·       Lilo & Stitch – Character “Lilo”

·       Finding Nemo and Finding Dory – Character “Dory”

·       Rain Man – Character “Raymond Babbitt”

·       Forrest Gump – Character “Forrest Gump”

·       A Beautiful Mind – Character “John Nash”

·       Temple Grandin – Character “Temple Grandin”

·       Big Bang Theory – Character “Sheldon Cooper”

Closing Statement:

As the future of film and television continues to grow, the representation of neurodiversity is gaining momentum. Authentic portrayals not only celebrate diversity but also contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of human experiences. By telling stories that reflect the realities of neurodiverse individuals, filmmakers and writers help us all to foster empathy and acceptance to all. So, the next time you watch a TV show or film, take a moment to consider how neurodiversity is represented. Moving forward, we should all support creators who prioritize inclusivity and genuine storytelling. Together, we can enrich and contribute to a broader conversation about neurodiversity that resonates with so many of us, our families, and friends/co-workers.

Source of Information: Various Google Searches and Personal Opinions

Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!