Down Syndrome Reality Show Winning Accolades And Fans

July 28, 2016

Source: disabilityscoop.com

By: Michell Diament

Riding high on a wave of success, a reality show all about a group of adults with Down syndrome is set to return to television.

The second season of A&E’s “Born This Way” premieres this week.

The show follows seven young adults with the chromosomal disorder along with their families and friends as they tackle everything from jobs to dating and independent living.

Since the debut of the documentary series’ first season late last year, A&E said that viewership increased 67 percent.

Meanwhile, “Born This Way” scored three Emmy nominations earlier this month. And, it was one of six programs named this spring to the Television Academy Honors, which highlights shows that “tackle complex issues and advance social change.”

“By honoring and embracing diversity on television, ‘Born This Way’ is uniquely redefining the art of honest storytelling and altering the way society views individuals with differences,” said Elaine Frontain Bryant, executive vice president and head of programming at A&E Network.

“Born This Way” is produced by Bunim/Murray Productions, the company responsible for some of TV’s best-known reality shows including “The Real World” and “Keeping up with the Kardashians.”

The new season brings 10 fresh episodes of the one-hour show. “Born This Way” returns Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET.