The Mighty Logo

Autism Dating Show ‘Love on the Spectrum’ Heads to Netflix

The most helpful emails in health
Browse our free newsletters

What happened: The docuseries “Love on the Spectrum” is airing on Netflix later this month. The series follows young adults with autism as they navigate the world of dating with the support of dating experts. The series, which is directed by Cian O’Cleary, first premiered on ABC Australia in November 2019. O’Cleary also created the Australian series “Employable Me,” which followed autistic job seekers.

I hope this series will start conversations, help bring about understanding and acceptance, and ultimately inspire people with autism, their families and society at large to find ways to help people on the spectrum find love. — Cian O’Cleary, Entertainment Tonight

The Frontlines: There are often misconceptions that autistic people don’t want to be in relationships or that they can’t love. Along with “Love on the Spectrum” some other documentaries and books shared an autistic perspective on the subject:

Get more on autism: Sign up for our weekly autism newsletter.

A Mighty Voice: Our contributor, Molly D. Dann-Pipinias, shared this about the theory that autistics can’t feel love: “I think my autism allows me to love more deeply than if I were neurotypical. I connect to people in more unique ways. I also feel like my love isn’t limited by levels. I love my friends just as deeply as I love my spouse.” You can submit your first person story, too.

From Our Community: 

What impacts your self-esteem the most?

Add your voice:

A banner promoting The Mighty's new Chat Space group on The Mighty mobile app. The banner reads, Want to talk and connect with others? Join Chat Space to check in with others or have a conversation that's not related to health (because we all need a break sometimes). Click to join.

Other things to know: Here are some more articles about autism and relationships:

How to take action: You can watch the trailer for “Love on the Spectrum” below and watch all five episodes on Netflix starting July 22.

Header image via Netflix/YouTube

Originally published: July 8, 2020
Want more of The Mighty?
You can find even more stories on our Home page. There, you’ll also find thoughts and questions by our community.
Take Me Home