Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

The cast and crew of Pablo at today's launch in Belfast. RTÉ
Pablo

RTÉ launches 'groundbreaking' new series whose main character and cast are on the autism spectrum

Pablo is based on the real-life experiences of people with autism who contributed to the development and writing teams.

A NEW RTÉ series launched today will feature a main character and cast who are all on the autism spectrum.

Pablo, a co-production with CBeebies, will debut next Monday on RTÉjr.

The show is a 52-episode live action and 2D animation series, which was created and produced by Belfast production company, Paper Owl Films.

It tells the story of a five-year-old boy on the autism spectrum who uses his creativity – and magic crayons – to invent an imaginary world filled with animal characters which help him make sense of social situations and process confusing or anxious thoughts and feelings.

Pablo is based on the real-life experiences of people with autism who contributed to the development and writing teams.

Grainne McGuinness, Creative Director at Paper Owl Films, said:

“Every child will love Pablo. He’s funny and smart and has a terrific imagination which takes him on wonderfully colourful adventures, which young audiences will want to share. He also sees the world differently, and thinks and processes things differently.

The series celebrates that difference, inviting viewers to see the world through the eyes of a child with autism, and to be enthralled and entertained by the view. The hope is to begin a new, more optimistic conversation about autism.

Pauline MacNamara, executive producer RTÉJr added:

“Pablo is funny, authentic and altogether charming and a welcome opportunity for RTÉjr to further exercise our mission to reflect the lives of all of our audiences.”

Read: New bill to support children with autism after 20,000 people sign petition for it

Your Voice
Readers Comments
13
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel