Special (TV series)

Special is an American comedy-drama television series created by Ryan O'Connell, based on his memoir I'm Special: And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves. The series premiered on Netflix on April 12, 2019, and ran for two seasons.

The show centers on Ryan Hayes, a young gay man with cerebral palsy who decides to rewrite his identity and pursue the life he's always wanted. He lands an internship at a quirky, irreverent online publication and navigates the challenges of adulthood, including relationships, career aspirations, and self-acceptance, all while confronting societal expectations and internal biases surrounding disability.

Special is known for its authentic and nuanced portrayal of disability, using humor and heart to explore themes of identity, sexuality, and the search for belonging. The series aims to break down stereotypes and promote greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with disabilities. O'Connell stars as the main character, Ryan Hayes, and also serves as writer and executive producer. The show also features Jessica Hecht as Ryan's overprotective mother, Karen, and Punam Patel as his best friend, Kim.