Examples of Women with Asperger’s in Film and TV
Asperger's Syndrome, a subset of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), has increasingly been represented in film and television. Characters with these traits often provide a nuanced portrayal of neurodivergence, including traits such as intense focus, social discomfort, and unique cognitive processing. Here, we explore several notable women with Asperger’s characteristics and their roles in popular films and TV shows.
Saga Norén in “Bron/Broen”
Saga Norén is played by Sofia Helin in the Swedish/Danish crime show “Bron/Broen.” This show, known in the US as “The Bridge,” has enjoyed significant success and critical acclaim. Saga is particularly remarkable as a character because she is prominently on the autistic spectrum. However, this does not limit her capabilities; she stands as an outstanding detective and is the show’s main protagonist. Her social discomfort and unique perspective are highlighted throughout the series, making her a complex and well-rounded character.
Lisbeth Salander from “The Millenium Trilogy”
While Lisbeth Salander may not be explicitly described as having Asperger’s in the film adaptations, her traits align closely with those of people on the spectrum. The original books, written by Stieg Larsson, provide a detailed portrayal of her social discomfort and other ascribed behaviors, which align with Asperger’s tendencies. Her eccentricities and intense focus are apparent in both the movies and the books, reinforcing her status as a character with Asperger’s-like traits.
Laurie Bream in “Silicon Valley”
Laurie Bream, played by Suzanne Cryer, offers another notable example. Her character in the later seasons of “Silicon Valley” exhibits classic Asperger’s behaviors, such as social discomfort. Observing her performance, it appears she has traits that are often associated with Asperger’s syndrome, though the show’s creators did not explicitly state that Laurie has Asperger’s. This demonstrates how neurodivergent characters can be integrated into narrative without necessarily revealing their condition.
Bones in “The Bones TV Series”
Bones, portrayed by Emily Deschanel, is another character widely recognized for having Asperger’s. The show explicitly states that her character has Asperger’s Syndrome, making it clear from the outset. Deschanel’s performance showcases a character who is socially awkward yet highly intelligent, with a unique set of skills and perspectives that set her apart in the episode.
Amy Farrah Fowler in “The Big Bang Theory”
Amy Farrah Fowler (portrayed by Mayim Bialik) adds to the list of neurodivergent characters in film and TV. Her character is described as having Asperger's Syndrome, known at the time as Asperger's Disorder. Her storylines often focus on her unique social interactions and cognitive traits, bringing light to the wide range of experiences within the autistic community.
The increasing representation of characters with Asperger’s in film and TV is a positive step towards greater understanding and inclusivity. While some characters are explicitly labeled with their condition, many others exhibit traits that are socially and behaviorally consistent with Asperger’s Syndrome. This representation helps to broaden the public's understanding of neurodiversity and challenges stereotypes associated with autism.