Here, though, is a really detailed essay on the show including, wonderfully, interviews with self-advocates about watching it. Opinions, of course, vary widely, no one is really upset by the show (nor should be), but not everyone is deeply moved or think it's transformative. Here's my favorite interview.
For this article, Ms. Gehringer asked her son directly about the show and forwarded me the questions and answers.
Q: Would you like to hang out with the gang on “Born This Way?”Hey, Agent Carter is back. Last year, a lot of people criticized the show for its relentlessly white cast (other than a jazz club owner), when New York in the 40s was a diverse city. I think the producers heard, as episode 1 engages directly with racism and segregation and had a handsome black male lead who (spoiler!) Peggy kisses.
A: I don’t know. I don’t know if we like the same things.
Q: What did you think when the gal got upset when she heard the words Down syndrome?
A: It hurts her feelings. I would not say it to her.
Follow Up Q: Does it hurt your feelings when you hear Down syndrome?
A: NO! Why would it hurt my feelings? I’m not the same feelings as her. (Under his breath) Stupid question.
Q: What do you think when the guys were talking about dating?
A: (Very reluctant to talk about this with his mom). I don’t know. That guy should respect boundaries.
Q: I thought I heard you commenting about the one guy getting to live in his own place. What did you think about that?
A: I want a house with a yard for my dog.
Q: Do you want to watch more of this show?
A: No. “Agent Carter” is coming back on.
“So there you have it,” said Ms. Gehringer. “Apparently he was much more unimpressed than I thought.”
