PBS Introduces First Autistic Lead Character in Kid’s Show, ‘Carl the Collector’

A new animated kid’s show on PBS features the first autistic lead character!

Only days ago, PBS announced a new kid’s animated series was in production. Carl the Collector features a lead character who is on the autism spectrum. The new series was created by author Zachariah Ohora, a New York Times best-selling author and illustrator.

Carl the Collector features animated stories that will celebrate the diverse way kids act, think, and express themselves while also assisting in building a strong sense of community and self. It’s scheduled to premiere in the fall of 2024 on PBS Kids.

“Carl the Collector values inclusion and empathy, while modeling relationship-building and social skill development, wrapped up in humor, heart, and incredible visual design,” said Sara DeWitt, the Senior Vice President, and General Manager of PBS KIDS. “We are excited for children to get to know Carl and his group of friends, who believe that the best experiences occur when we honor the things that make each of us unique.”

“My hope for Carl and his diverse group of Fuzzytown friends is that they will inspire neurodiverse and neurotypical kids alike to foster a world in which neurodiversity is not only recognized as a benefit to society, but is celebrated as exemplifying the full spectrum of what it means to be human,” said creator and co-producer Ohora.

Carl the Collector will follow the daily adventures of Carl, a young, warm-hearted, autistic raccoon who just loves to collect things. His talents include being laser-focused on achieving his goals, a unique way of looking at the world, and attention to detail. Thanks to his talents, Carl has amassed an extensive collection of things perfect for every occasion.

While solving problems around the local neighborhood with his friends, Carl also deals with his own challenges, such as anxiety, meeting new people, and understanding how to handle situations when they don’t go his way. Like his other friends, Carl is learning that there’s no wrong or right way to be himself.

The show’s cast includes both neurodiverse and neurotypical characters, all with different behaviors, traits, and challenges.

“In today’s world, inclusivity and representation in programming is more important than ever, especially for the youngest of viewers,” said Caroline Bandolik, Supervising Producer and Vice President of Production for Spiffy Pictures. “We instantly fell in love with this beautiful Fuzzytown world Zachariah created, filled with engaging and relatable characters and funny, heartfelt stories.”

“As an autistic person, I continue to be amazed at the level of detail and effort the team expends to assure that Carl and Lotta are authentic to the autistic experience,” said Dr. Shore. “In addition to being an interesting series, Carl the Collector will become a great tool for both autistic and non-autistic people to gain insight on autism. Although designed for young kids, I plan on using relevant excerpts to supplement my university teaching and presentations worldwide.”

Dr. Oades-Sese also noted, “It is about time for a children’s show like Carl the Collector, which embraces the diversity of children’s experiences and showcases an inclusive and relatable world. The show doesn’t shy away from having its main characters experience common mental health challenges such as anxiety, fear, sadness and the need for acceptance and belonging. Carl and his Fuzzytown friends take viewers on fun and humorous adventures that will help them understand and empathize with the characters, and ultimately, extend that understanding and compassion for others.”

PBS Introduces First Autistic Lead Character in Kid’s Sho, ‘Carl the Collector’ – Conclusion

It’s fantastic to see more movies, television shows, and kid’s shows highlighting the importance of ASD and increasing awareness, especially among kids, to show that just because someone is different doesn’t make them any less special. Stay tuned for the premiere of Carl the Collector on PBS Kids in Fall 2024.

If you have any questions about autism products or would like to find more information about sensory products, please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us directly. Our friendly and professional team is standing by to assist you.