Margaux Wosk found herself in a dilemma when offered a TV appearance opportunity. As the head of BC People First, a non-profit supporting individuals with disabilities, Wosk, who is also an autistic advocate and business owner, had reservations due to the historical misrepresentation of autistic individuals in the media.
Concerned about the stereotypical portrayal of neurodivergent individuals, Wosk reflected on shows like “Love on the Spectrum” and “The Good Doctor,” which have faced criticism for their inaccurate depictions of autism. However, there are positive examples like “As We See It” and “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay,” which have been praised for their authentic representation and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals in the production process.
Moving beyond these shows, the focus shifted to “The Assembly,” a reality TV series originating from France and now premiering in Canada. The concept involves pairing neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, with celebrities for candid interviews. Notable figures like Jann Arden and Howie Mandel have participated, leading to varied reactions from sheer embarrassment to high praise.
The show’s success, according to Wosk, lies in its genuine consultation with autistic individuals throughout the production. By involving them in various aspects of the show’s creation, “The Assembly” aims to avoid reducing neurodivergent people to mere caricatures, a pitfall often seen in similar programs.
Executive producer Sean De Vries emphasized the show’s commitment to authenticity through the candid nature of the questions posed to celebrities. While some viewers see “The Assembly” as a positive step forward in representation, others, like culture writer Sarah Kurchak, express concern over potential voyeuristic tendencies in the audience’s response.
Kurchak highlighted the importance of showcasing the diverse perspectives and capabilities of autistic individuals instead of sensationalizing their interactions. While acknowledging the progress made by “The Assembly,” she emphasized the need to view autistic people as fully capable human beings deserving of respect and representation that goes beyond tokenism.
Wosk echoed these sentiments, recognizing that striving for inclusive and authentic representation in media involves active involvement of autistic individuals at every stage of production. By setting a precedent for genuine consultation and participation, “The Assembly” aims to contribute positively to the portrayal of autism in the media.