The A Word, BBC1: Joe goes missing as Paul and Alison launch the gastropub in series finale

The autism-based family drama comes to an emotionally rich and heartwarming close
Missing: Joe goes walkabout in the final episode of The A Word
BBC/Fifty Fathoms
Ben Travis27 April 2016

Peter Bowker’s drama series The A Word has proved a hit for the BBC, and now reaches its final episode.

The show follows parents Alison and Paul who are learning to understand their young son Joe’s autism diagnosis.

Exploring the joys and the difficulties that families in similar positions often face, The A Word has been praised for offering a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of autism than other more sanitised representations, with a stand-out turn by young actor Max Vento.

In the final episode, family tensions reach a new high as Paul and Alison prepare to launch the gastropub – with matters made worse when Joe goes missing.

Drawing on Bowker’s own experiences working with children with severe learning disabilities, the show has helped to dramatise and spread awareness of autism – as well as being a compelling family drama with emotionally rich and complex characters.

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It’s currently unconfirmed whether a second series of The A Word will be in the works – but no doubt viewers will be desperate for the next chapter of Joe, Alison and Paul’s story.

BBC One, 9pm

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