PBS Kids Announces Its First-Ever Main Character With Autism

Image via Fuzzytown Productions, LLC / PBS Kids

PBS Kids has hopscotched its way to further representation with the introduction of its first autistic lead character. Carl the Collector, an animated series aimed at children ages four to eight, follows the adventures of Carl, a warm-hearted raccoon whose passion for collecting fuels his problem-solving skills and strengthens his friendships within the quirky and welcoming town of Fuzzytown.

Created by New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Zachariah O’Hora, Carl the Collector not only celebrates Carl’s unique perspective but also features a neurodiverse cast. Lotta, a fox who is Carl’s friend, is also on the autism spectrum and experiences sensory sensitivities, and the show reflects them in a way young viewers can understand.

“Carl the Collector spotlights neurodiverse characters while exploring and celebrating the entire spectrum of humanity,” says O’Hora, who also serves as executive producer on the show. “The world of Fuzzytown is designed to be a place where all viewers will see themselves or someone they know in it.”

From autographs and bottle caps to an assortment of mustaches and even pet rocks, Carl’s collections come in handy more often than not, as his meticulous approach and creative problem-solving skills help him and his friends navigate the challenges of Fuzzytown.

This close circle of friends showcases the rich gamut of personalities that make up Fuzzytown. Sheldon, the empathetic beaver, is always there to lend a supportive paw and connect with those who might feel like outsiders. The identical twin bunnies, Nico and Arugula, present a delightful contrast—their personalities are as different as night and day, leading to some hilarious moments as they grapple with defining their own identities. Rounding out the crew is Forrest, the hyperactive squirrel with a nut allergy who's always game for an adventure.

Image via Fuzzytown Productions, LLC / PBS Kids

Through their adventures, Carl and his friends learn valuable lessons about friendship, acceptance, and the importance of embracing what makes each of them special. The series tackles real-life situations kids might encounter, like social anxiety and the frustration of feeling misunderstood.

For example, in an episode titled The Fall, Carl struggles to react when Nico trips and gets hurt. Another episode, The Fake Mustache Collection, sees Nico frustrated by being mistaken for her twin sister.  With his keen eye for detail, Carl helps Nico find a way to express her individuality.

“By portraying a close group of neurodivergent and neurotypical friends, Carl the Collector models how all of us can be helpful, supportive and appreciative of each other’s ways of thinking,” shares Sara DeWitt, senior vice president and general manager at PBS Kids. “We are thrilled to introduce Carl, his friends, and his amazing collections to young audiences and help them build the social skills they will need as they make friends and engage in their communities.”

Among the show’s team of writers is Ava X. Rigelhaupt, who is autistic herself. “It’s so exciting for one of my first TV writing gigs to be on a series that highlights part of my lived experience,” expresses Rigelhaupt. “There’s a saying, ‘If you’ve met one autistic person, you’ve met just one autistic person,’ which is something this show authentically demonstrates in every episode. It’s a joy writing for this show and working with a team that includes so many talented neurodiverse people. I am hopeful that Carl the Collector will expand perspectives of autism and neurodiversity, creating a better understanding and further acceptance for future generations.” 

This November 14, join Carl and his friends in Fuzzytown for a celebration of neurodiversity and the power of being yourself at the series premiere, which will be available in both English and Spanish.

[via PBS]