It’s simple: if a character in a film or TV show is on the autism spectrum, the actor must also be neurodiverse. Without that lived experience, the portrayal can’t be fully accurate.
Authenticity Can’t Be Faked
As an autistic actor, I know firsthand that only those of us who are neurodiverse can bring the authenticity needed to such roles. We have the lived experience, the knowledge, and the understanding to give a true-to-life performance. Unfortunately, it's still rare to see autistic characters played by autistic actors. But when it does happen, the difference is clear—these portrayals are more accurate, relatable, and enjoyable to watch.
One example of this is the eight-episode series AUSTIN on ABC iview, where I, Michael Theo, play the lead character, Austin, who is also on the autism spectrum. The response to having someone with real experience portray this role has been overwhelmingly positive. Audiences crave authenticity, and it’s something the media needs to prioritise.
Lived Experience and Natural Talent Matter
Only Autistic actors can truly capture the essence of a neurodiverse character. Neurotypical actors simply cannot provide the same depth of understanding, because they lack the lived experience. It’s as simple as that. Take shows like Heartbreak High, where Chloe Hayden, an Autistic actor, plays a neurodiverse character, or my role in Austin. If you want an authentic portrayal of autism, cast an Autistic actor.
Unfortunately, there’s still a misconception that autistic people can't be great actors. That question alone shows how little people know about the diversity and talent within the autistic community. Autistic actors are not only capable—they often possess incredible, natural talent that can’t be taught.
Breaking Stereotypes
Research shows that most people learn about autism from TV, movies, and the media. But these portrayals often show a narrow, and sometimes negative, view of autism. They can reinforce harmful stereotypes, like the idea that all autistic people are white, male, and exceptionally intelligent. (Fontes & Pino-Juste, 2021 and Jones et al.,(2023). This is far from the truth. Neurotypical actors, when portraying Autistic characters, often lean on these stereotypes, which can further marginalise our community.
It’s critical for the media to offer more diverse and accurate representations of autism. This can help dispel harmful stereotypes and give the world a better understanding of what it truly means to be on the spectrum.
Autistic People Deserve the Spotlight
This is why it’s so important for autistic actors to be given the same opportunities as neurotypical actors. It shouldn’t even be up for debate. If you’re going to write a neurodiverse character, hire an autistic actor to play the role.
Autistic actors have the power to inspire others on the spectrum to pursue their dreams, to show them that their path isn’t defined by the world’s expectations. We have so much to offer, including strengths that are often overlooked, like being comfortable with public speaking—something many neurotypical people find intimidating.
No More Excuses!
It’s time we all take a stand and demand proper representation. Neurodiversity, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and OCD, needs to be recognised and valued. The media must move beyond stereotypes and give neurodiverse people authentic portrayals.
Tune Into The Assembly
Thankfully, there’s a growing movement to include more authentic representations of neurodiverse individuals in the Australian media. The Assembly is a new seven-episode series that follows a group of autistic student journalists as they prepare to interview some of the nation’s biggest names, including Sam Neill, Hamish Blake, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Delta Goodrem, Adam Goodes, and Amanda Keller.
You can catch The Assembly now on ABC iview and ABC TV. Let’s continue pushing for authentic representation and giving autistic actors the chance to shine!
