What is Atypical (TV) About?
Atypical is a heartwarming and insightful American comedy-drama television series that centers around Samuel "Sam" Gardner, an 18-year-old on the autism spectrum. The narrative follows Sam's quest for love and autonomy, with his condition bringing a unique set of challenges to the already turbulent path of adolescence. As Sam embarks on his journey toward self-discovery and independence, his family members also find themselves exploring their own lives and relationships, resulting in a multifaceted exploration of what it means to be 'normal'. The show touches upon various themes, including the complexities of the family unit, personal growth, and the importance of empathy. Created by Robia Rashid for Netflix, the series premiered on August 11, 2017, and ran for four seasons, concluding on July 9, 2021. Atypical's commitment to authenticity evolved over time, initially drawing criticism for a lack of autistic representation but later integrating autistic actors and writers to more accurately depict the community. The series has garnered attention for its humor, character development, and respectful portrayal of individuals on the autism spectrum.
The first episode of Atypical aired on August 11, 2017 and the most recent episode to air was on July 09, 2021.