Over the years, I’ve seen Adam and Christina grow as a couple and evolve as special needs parents. I’ve witnessed Max’ progress. I have cried for him. I have cheered for him. And I have hoped for him.
I know many autism parents refuse to watch Parenthood, “I live it, I don’t need to see it on TV.” And I get that. I do. But I am so grateful that Max’ character existed. I am grateful that the writers showed the ups and downs of raising a kid with autism. I am grateful that they showed their fight for acceptance in the school system. Because when people who don’t have kids with autism, watch Parenthood – they are more likely to understand my day-to-day.
I feel like I have walked this journey right alongside Adam, Christina and Max. I have felt all of their emotions. I have had to work through my own moments of accepting autism. And I’ve had my moments of pride and joy. And Max’ final scenes gives me something to hope for. Because when you’re an autism parent, hope is the thing you cling to.
What was your favorite moment of the Parenthood finale?
I Loved the fact Max graduated at the end of the season
YES!! That was awesome…and the look of pride on his face was priceless. And when he was able to hug his sister – that was HUGE for Max!
It sure was! It took Max a few second but he raised that diploma and smiled to his parents.
The scene where Max dances with the girl. It made me cry out of fear that won't happen for JJ and hope that it will all at the same time. This show will be deeply missed. Great article Lisa
Thanks Deb! Me too…and I loved that it was the girl who took an interest in him first. I am tearing up thinking about it!
I have almost two full seasons to catch up on, but what strikes me about how Parenthood dealt with Max's autism is how complex it is shown to be. I remember one scene in particular that was definitely meant to be heartwarming in a good way, but from a different perspective was disturbing … I'm referring to a moment when Kristina insisted on hugging and holding Max, out of grief and despair, while Max kept saying he didn't like to be hugged. On the more positive side, his relationship with Hank was an incredibly important addition to the show, and it was the 2nd time the show took a look at adults with autism … something almost unheard of on TV and in movies. I'll miss the show, too.
I am still catching up, but as a parent of a child with different abilities, I identify so much with the show. Life is messy and they are showing that side of life.