Love on the Spectrum: A heartfelt journey to find love
When the creator of Love on the Spectrum, Cian O’Clery, asks Tanner, a bright-eyed 24-year-old, how much he wants to find love on a scale of 1-10, Tanner enthusiastically responds, “12!” This level of excitement is a common thread throughout the show, which documents and assists individuals with autism in their quest for romance.
A unique approach to dating shows
Love on the Spectrum stands out in the crowded landscape of reality TV. Unlike many dating shows that feature glamorous contestants and manufactured drama, this series focuses on real people and genuine experiences. O’Clery explains, “Not everyone on the spectrum needs help finding love. But some people do, and some people are screaming out for it.”
The show aims to introduce viewers to a diverse group of individuals on the autism spectrum, a representation often missing in mainstream media. It also provides support to those who might need a little extra help in the dating world. O’Clery had always wanted to create a dating show that felt more truthful and honest, and Love on the Spectrum is the realization of that vision.
A reality show grounded in reality
The series, which has filmed two seasons in Australia and two in the U.S., is a reality show in the truest sense. The crew assists participants in finding potential matches in their vicinity, but beyond that, the story unfolds naturally. There are no scripted storylines or “villain edits.” The crew maintains a low profile, using smaller cameras and minimal lighting to ensure participants feel comfortable and authentic.
O’Clery emphasizes the importance of a small crew and a quiet presence during filming. “I try and be really quiet and have a very small footprint. And we have a really small crew… I shoot the second camera as well,” he says. This unobtrusive approach allows the participants to be themselves, resulting in a more genuine portrayal of their experiences.
Casting with care and continuity
Unlike other reality shows, Love on the Spectrum does not have a dedicated casting team. Instead, the producer handles casting, allowing for a rolling casting period where the team is always on the lookout for new stories. This method ensures continuity of care and support, as the same people who initially meet the participants are often present during filming.
The team initially sought cast members through connections within the autism community, developing relationships with various organizations to spread the word. As the show gained popularity, they began receiving an influx of applications from people eager to participate. However, with limited space on the show, the team faces the challenging task of selecting participants who represent the diversity of the spectrum and have unique, engaging stories.
Building trust and representation
Joining Love on the Spectrum requires a significant leap of faith from participants, and O’Clery acknowledges the immense trust they place in the production team. To honor this trust, the show has formalized its efforts to depict autism accurately and respectfully. This includes hiring neurodiverse crew members and a permanent autism consultant to lead sensitivity training sessions. Additionally, dating coach Jennifer Cook, who is on the spectrum herself, provides valuable advice to the participants.
O’Clery views the participants as consultants, valuing their insights and experiences. “The people themselves who we’re filming, to us, they’re also consultants,” he says. “They know what’s right for them.”
The art of matchmaking
Matching participants is a delicate process, as the autism spectrum is incredibly diverse. The team relies on their instincts to find individuals who might connect on a similar wavelength. When it works, the results can be heartwarming. Couples like Abbey and David in the U.S. and Ronan and Katie in Australia are still going strong, showcasing the potential for lasting love.
Even when romantic connections don’t last, participants often form meaningful friendships. For example, James, a participant from the American series, has expanded his social circle to include former romantic interests Maggie and Emma.
Impact and future prospects
Beyond creating stars like Michael, who is set to act in ABC’s “Austin,” the show’s impact is multifaceted. O’Clery is proud that Love on the Spectrum documents a broad spectrum of individuals with autism, breaking away from the Hollywood norm of featuring just one autistic character in a series cast.
The show has inspired many viewers to embark on their own dating journeys, motivated by the stories they’ve seen. While O’Clery hints that the show might not return to Australia soon, he is open to exploring new countries, particularly those that could benefit from a better understanding of autism.
Currently, the series is more than two-thirds into filming its third American season. The second season in the U.S. is up for four Emmys this September, a testament to its critical acclaim. However, for O’Clery, the most important critics are the participants themselves. “We’re really happy that [the] people [we film] are happy,” he says.
Love on the Spectrum is more than just a reality show; it’s a heartfelt journey that celebrates love, diversity, and the human spirit. For those interested in exploring the series further, you can watch the trailer and find more information here.