Max new autistic on 'Daniel Tigers Neighborhood'

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A recurring character with autism is coming to the PBS KIDS show “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” and he’s voiced by a teenager on the spectrum.

The show — an offshoot of the venerable “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” — will introduce the new character named Max in April, a month when autism is often front and center.

Max is Teacher Harriet’s nephew and he’s sensitive to loud sounds, flashing lights and uncomfortable fabrics. He likes numbers, buses, bugs and his big sister Amira, but sometimes it takes him longer to get comfortable with new people and situations.

Those behind the show said they worked with Wes Dotson, an associate professor of special education at the University of Missouri, to develop the character who is voiced by Israel Thomas-Bruce, a 13-year-old with autism from Toronto.

“It was very important to us to cast the role with authenticity,” Loggins said.

Max will appear in two episodes premiering the week of April 5 and Loggins said more episodes including Max are in the works.

In addition to “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” PBS KIDS will also spotlight autism on an episode of “Hero Elementary” on April 2 and an episode of “Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum” premiering April 5 that features self-advocate Temple Grandin.