Imagine the barriers that would be broken down for those with autism if dating-reality shows like Love on the Spectrum, which is so wholesome and pure, became the norm in the entertainment world instead of shows like The Bachelor.
This was a thought I had when watching the first episode of the second season of Love on the Spectrum, an autism-themed dating reality show that is now available to stream on Netflix.
Similar to Season 1, Love on the Spectrum looks at the lives of autistic individuals in the dating world. This time around, they are looking into the lives of Ronan, Kassandra, Jayden & Teo, along with familiar Season 1 fan favorites Michael, Mark, Chloe, and an autistic couple in Jimmy and Share.
Warning: Spoilers ahead, so if you haven’t watched yet, give this article a share on social media and come back later.
Overall I was pleased again with the cast’s authenticity in their pursuits of dating, romance & love. While many dating shows feel scripted, you can tell this one doesn’t. At times there are heartfelt moments, funny one-liners, and at other times a bit of awkwardness sprinkled in.
Here are some key highlights for me from the season…
Michael – What can I say? Michael reminds me so much of myself growing up on the autism spectrum, searching for love in my 20’s so when I heard he’d be back for another season, I was genuinely excited. I applaud him for continuing to put himself out there, most specifically in doing speed dating, which can be an intimidating experience for anyone. When he found a match, I was rooting that it could be ‘the one,’ but alas, he preferred to just be friends with her by the end of the season. I admired him for realizing what he wants in a relationship and not settling. I know some of my mentees worry about breaking up with a partner because of doubts about finding someone else. Michael has become a role model for countless.
Continuing to highlight the LGBTQ autistic community – Representation of autistics from the LGBT community are often underrepresented, so I was happy to see both Teo and Mark, both Bisexual, being featured here.
Online dating – Although only mentioned briefly, I have seen this as a platform for some of my autistic mentees to succeed. The advantages of thinking about what you want to say before meeting face-to-face have been helpful for some.
Like Season 1, I’d recommend Season 2 without reservations. What did you think of Season 2? Tell me in the comments.
You can watch “Love on the Spectrum” on Netflix here.
You can read my review of Season 1 here.
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My name is Kerry Magro, a professional speaker, best-selling author & autism entertainment consultant who is also on the autism spectrum that started the nonprofit KFM Making a Difference in 2011 to help students with autism receive scholarship aid to pursue a post-secondary education. Help support me so I can continue to help students with autism go to college by making a tax-deductible donation to our nonprofit here.
