How ABC’s ‘Speechless’ plans to avoid the ‘very special episode’ syndrome

From Campaign US: For the most part, ABC’s new “Speechless,” debuting on Wednesdays this fall, follows the cookie-cutter template of a wacky family sitcom. There’s the take-charge mom, portrayed by Oscar-nominee Minnie Driver, and the clueless (or is he?) dad, played by “The Big Bang Theory’s” John Ross Bowie (minus the Elmer Fudd speech-impediment). There is an athletic daughter (Kyla Kenedy) and a precocious middle child (Mason Cook).

The character that sets “Speechless” apart is the oldest son, J.J, played by Micah Fowler, an actor who has cerebral palsy. The show begins when the family moves to a new town in search of a more opportunities, including a better education for wheelchair-bound J.J., who struggles to communicate, and hilarity (hopefully) ensues.

Though “Speechless is not the first network show to feature a recurring character with cerebral palsy, it does represent a new take on disability in general, a topic broadcast TV has never been exactly comfortable with. For more at Campaign US, click here