Carl the Collector, PBS Kids’ newest animated TV show, is breaking new ground as the first series to be led by a character on the autism spectrum. Created by Zachariah OHora, the show celebrates the diverse ways kids think and express themselves, aiming to help them develop a sense of self and community. Geared toward children aged 4 to 8, the series is set to premiere in the fall of 2024.
The show’s creator and executive producer, Zachariah OHora, expressed his hope that Carl and his diverse group of Fuzzytown friends would inspire neurodiverse and neurotypical kids to foster a world in which neurodiversity is not only recognized as a benefit to society but is also celebrated as exemplifying the full spectrum of what it means to be human.
Produced by Fuzzytown Productions and the studio behind “Donkey Hodie,” Spiffy Pictures, “Carl the Collector” follows the everyday adventures of Carl, a raccoon who loves to collect things. Carl’s talents as a raccoon on the spectrum have led to an impressive collection for nearly every occasion, and they also help him solve problems with his friends around the neighborhood. His energy matches his penchant for logic and precision, addressing his anxiety within new situations and handling issues when things don’t go according to plan. The show will explore the idea that there is no right or wrong way to be oneself, encouraging children to embrace their unique qualities.
Sara DeWitt, PBS Kids’ senior vice president and general manager, shared that “Carl the Collector” values inclusion and empathy while modeling relationship-building and social skill development, wrapped up in humor, heart, and incredible visual design. The series will feature characters who are both neurodiverse and neurotypical to illustrate the breadth of traits, behaviors, learning preferences, and challenges that young viewers can experience. Among Carl’s friends is Sheldon, a beaver with a knack for connecting people and looking out for the underdog. Lotta, a fox, is a quiet and self-assured autistic artist and musician, while Nico and Arugula, twin bunny sisters, have different personalities despite their identical appearance. Finally, Forrest, a hyperactive and impulsive squirrel, always ready for an adventure, has a tree nut allergy.
Related Post
To bring Fuzzytown’s residents to life, the series turned to the Emmy- and Annie-nominated Yowza! Animation studio for the animation, and a production team of neurodiverse and neurotypical writers, advisors, and voice talent. Advisors for the show include Dr. Geraldine Oades-Sese, Dr. Stephen Shore, and Deborah Farmer Kris, who are all professionals experienced in the field of child psychology, autism, and education.
Dr. Shore praised the level of detail and effort the team has put into assuring that both Carl and Lotta are authentic to the autistic experience. He believes that “Carl the Collector” will become a great tool for both autistic and non-autistic people to gain insight into autism. The show is not only interesting but also a great teaching tool that covers common mental health challenges such as anxiety, fear, sadness, and the need for acceptance and belonging.
Caroline Bandolik serves as the series’ supervising producer, with Jesse McMahon as content producer. The head writer is Adam Rudman, co-founder of Spiffy Pictures, and contributing writers include TV and picture book writer Samantha Berger, advocate and actress Ava X. Rigelhaupt, writer/director/puppeteer Joey Mazzarino, and children’s book authors Kelly DiPucchio and Bob Shea.
Caroline Bandolik emphasized the importance of inclusivity and representation in programming, especially for the youngest of viewers. She expressed the team’s love for the beautiful Fuzzytown world that Zachariah had created, filled with engaging and relatable characters and funny, heartfelt stories. With its focus on neurodiversity, empathy, and celebration of individuality, “Carl the Collector” is poised to become a beloved addition to children’s programming and a valuable resource for both neurodiverse and neurotypical kids.
