Love on the Spectrum, produced by Northern Pictures for ABC, is an Australian reality show streaming on Netflix concerning young adults in the autistic spectrum to have hands-on experience in dating. The series successfully provides its participants with all kinds of modern dating experiences, and it has taken finding love in the midst of a pandemic to a higher level.
Production Development
Under the skillful direction and creativity of Cian O’Clery, the show premiered on ABC in November 2019 and was available on Netflix from July 2020 in a five-part structure. Soon after the first season’s success, the second season was confirmed in 2020, which hit the screens on September 21, 2021, leaving the fans of the show under the impression that the show would be renewed for a third season.
The show in its entirety was shot in Australia, with its every season featuring a new group of people, giving us a better insight into their love life.
Some Fun Facts About the Show
First, the show’s creator, Cian, is still in touch with the participants from its previous season. Michael, his favorite, is in regular contact with him, and they often talk about others from the show.
Second, Hollywood’s lack of representation of people with disabilities has led to the creators having the original idea about this show. The creators wanted to give an accurate picture of people who are on the spectrum and cater to these people with the love and respect they deserve.
Third, some of the dating events were arranged by the producers. Even though several organizations work for and with people on the autistic spectrum dealing with their day-to-day needs, they have ignored the dating aspect. Hence, the very able production unit took it upon themselves to find suitable matches for the contestants.
Fourth, people at times think that these dating reality shows are scripted, and none of these people end up together. But to prove them all wrong, we have an example of season one contestants, Ruth and Thomas; they find love and are happily married now.
Reception
The show has won the hearts of critics and audience, and The Guardian has given the show a four out of five starts saying that, “at its best, this show is a compassionate, human celebration of difference, and of love.” The CNN Entertainment commented, “exhibits empathy toward the featured players without condescending toward them, and quickly bridges any cultural barriers in a broadly universal manner.”
The Chicago Tribute was hard on critiquing certain parts but for the most of the show, they said, “Unlike Tiger King or The Bachelor, or certain real-life political reality shows that lost touch with the real world a long time ago, Love on the Spectrum is about empathy. And about something more interesting than contempt.”
The thought of the show coming to the screens for a third season has left the audience pondering upon what will the new cast bring to the show, and will it be equally exciting as the previous two seasons? To answer all these questions, we might have to wait for a season renewal.
