Born This Way, A&E’s docu-series is about seven adults with Down syndrome who pursue their dreams and try to live their lives as independently as possible.
According to Deadline, the popular docu-series has already been renewed for a second season.
The series originally aired on December 8th and has since done well in ratings and continues to be popular with all demographics, especially those ages 18-54.
Elaine Frontain Bryant, the Executive Vice President & Head of Programming for A&E said “We have been overwhelmed and moved by the feedback we’ve received for Born This Way from viewers, as well as people with disabilities and their family members. It’s rare to be able to present a show that changes the way we see the world; we believe Born This Way is one of those shows.”
The show is set in Southern California and features seven adults with varying backgrounds.
There’s:
Megan an entrepreneur who has a clothing line called “Megology.” Megan’s also interested in pursuing a career in producing films. In the first episode, Megan is the new girl in town as she takes the first step in moving to LA.
Sean, is a talented golfer and a devoted sportsman. He’s also a self-proclaimed ladies’ man who isn’t shy to talk to girls. We see Sean hit on a couple of girls who catch his eye in the first episode.
Cristina, works at a middle school and is currently in a relationship with her boyfriend of four years and counting. Cristina’s caring personality is shown immediately as we see that she doesn’t hesitate to comfort others on the show whenever they’re feeling upset.
John is a charismatic dude who loves rapping and is a natural entertainer. He’s also one who will likely make you laugh or chuckle a few times throughout the first episode. He’s a laid back guy who enjoys life.
Rachel, works for an insurance company in the mailroom. We get to see Rachel working hard in the first episode and she also talks about how she enjoys working where she does. Rachel comes across as very genuine and easygoing.
Steven likes to keep busy, especially since he works two jobs as a dishwasher at Angel Stadium and in customer service at a grocery store. In the first episode, Steven shares with viewers his hope to find someone who he is compatible with. Also, during the first episode, he steers clear from the drama that ensues.
Elena, loves to enjoy life and everything that it entails including dancing, cooking, and writing poetry. You can see the complexity of her character in the first episode when all seven adults are hanging out and she becomes upset after someone says the word Down syndrome when talking about their journey.
During the first episode, we also hear from the parents as they each talk about some of the challenges they encountered with helping their son or daughter towards becoming as independent as possible.
For one of the parents, one of those challenges included raising a child in a country where it was not socially acceptable to have a child with an intellectual disability. Another parent was told her son would never amount to much.
What’s great about the show is that it debunks many misconceptions people may have on individuals with Down syndrome.
Check out the trailer for A&E’s Born This Way below:
There’s no word on when the second season of Born This Way will premiere but you can catch episodes of the popular docu-series on A&E.