Amazing TV Shows Which Feature Actors with Cerebral Palsy
Deadwater Fell (2020) Channel 4, UK David Tennant plays a country doctor whose wife and children perish in a tragic house fire. His disabled daughter Charlotte (Lilac Rose Jackson) is featured in numerous flashbacks which highlight the cracks in the family’s facade, as the police unravel the mystery surrounding their deaths.
The Politician (2019-) Netflix In this outlandish comedy drama about a high school election Ryan Haddad plays Andrew; a teenager who likes to get high, he isn’t afraid to let the future president know a thing or two about his supposedly cancer-stricken running mate.
Special (2019-2021) Netflix: The first ever 15 minute Netflix show introduces a gay 20-something with mild CP (Ryan O’ Connell) who starts an internship at a magazine and decides to lie about his disability.
The Heights (2019-2020) ABC, Australia: This show explores the relationship between residents of an inner-city social housing block and those in the surrounding gentrified community. Characters include sassy schoolgirl Sabine (Bridie McKim) who navigates parental boundaries, boyfriends, sex and female solidarity at her new school in Arcadia Heights.
9-1-1 (2018-) Fox, USA: The show, which centers on first responders in L.A. features Eddie, a veteran and single Dad to Christopher (Gavin McHugh). This programme showcases important issues like service provision for persons with disabilities during natural disasters, as well as the impact of guilt/abandonment on parent-child relationships.
Speechless (2016-2019) ABC, USA This sitcom features JJ (Micah Fowler) a cheeky, non-verbal teen who rolls through life with his wacky family in tow. This show explores the nuances of ableism with heartfelt hilarity. Topics include ‘inspiration porn’ and damaging double standards for persons with disabilities.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013) AMC, USA: This show features Walter, a dying chemistry teacher turned drug dealer, whose condition drives him to provide his family after he is gone. Hearing of his Dad’s diagnosis and afraid of losing him, Walter Jr. (RJ Mitte) lashes out, partaking in typical teenage rebellion.
