5 Famous People With Autism

According to the National Autism Association, autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet the most underfunded. There are a number of misconceptions associated with the diagnosis. First of all, no two cases are identical – in fact, that is why it is incredibly hard for researchers to treat patients. Over the past 20 years, autism has steadily grown and become a more widespread disease. Autism now affects 1 in 68 children – and boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls. However, studies have found early intervention is key and can lead to a lot of stereotypical constraints to be knocked down.

Since autism is so widely diagnosed, it is important to know that others have lived a fulfilled life. Having this information and recognizing these individuals will provide hope to those suffering. Moreover, knowing that other people in the world are also experiencing these challenges keeps the conversation relevant and diminishes the taboo connotation. As human beings, we accomplish more when we’re standing tall as a unified community – and celebrities speaking out about the autism diagnosis serve as a great foundation.

In case you didn’t know, there are several celebrities and notable figures thriving despite their autism diagnosis. Want to know who these wonderful people are? Keep reading and prepare to be amazed.

Darryl Hannah

The Kill Bill and Splash actress has Asperger’s Syndrome and struggled with the autism diagnosis for years. Darryl Hannah didn’t know how to handle her autism, since at the time, autism was perceived as a very taboo disease. It wasn’t until the mid-2000’s that Hannah actually spoke publicly about the challenges Asperger’s Syndrome has brought forth.

As a child, Hannah knew something wasn’t right, but the medical technology at the time did not provide the needed resources nor the diagnostic category. In interviews, Hannah said that the autism left her with debilitating shyness. Hence, red carpet events were terrifying situations for Hannah – because autism was not properly recognized within the medical field, doctors recommended that Hannah be medicated and institutionalized. New research has discovered that girls who are diagnosed at a young age tend to exhibit more intense symptoms of autism – this proves that girls and women often go undetected because they over compensate and shut down.

Dan Aykroyd

Academy Award winning writer and actor, Dan Aykroyd confirmed in 2004 that he suffered from autism in his early years. After undergoing a lot of ongoing issues, Aykroyd finally sought out help from physicians. The actor has mentioned, in interviews, that he was expelled from school twice due to his habits of acting up. After seeing multiple psychiatrists, Aykroyd was diagnosed with mild symptoms of Asperger’s syndrome.

The talented film writer suffered from mild OCD tendencies. While many may see the negative connotations with the autism diagnosis, Aykroyd references his OCD nature as the obsessive drive and fascination towards policemen and ghosts. Ultimately, his OCD was the driving force that inspired him to write Ghostbusters.

Aykroyd got his start on Saturday Night Live and was a part of the cast for four years. His musical sketch, with John Belushi on SNL, eventually turned into an actual performing band and then the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. During some of his SNL guest performances, Aykroyd recruited his friend and frequent guest host John Goodman to perform as The Blue Brothers musical act.

Alexia Wineman

When you think autism, you probably rule out beauty queen contestant because of the criticism and preconceived stereotypes brought on by society. However, Alexia Wineman, aka Miss Montana, became the first Miss American contestant with autism and the youngest contestant in the Miss America 2013 pageant. Research has found women suffering from autism are often crippled by the social pressures in public environments.

According to CNN, Wineman was diagnosed with pervasive development disorder, which is placed on the spectrum of autism. Many doctors have said that this diagnosis is like a small voice inside your head, often expressing that the individual is never enough and cannot meet anyone’s standards. Yet, Wineman defied all autism odds and won so many competitive pageant awards. There is no doubt that Wiseman has become a role model for women of all ages – and proves that any odds can be defeated.

Wineman continues to serve as a public speaker and speak out against the critics and naysayers – her motivational speakers have inspired thousands.

Susan Boyle

Everyone was blown away by Scottish native Susan Boyle and her life-changing audition for the popular show Britain’s Got Talent. Her angelic voice touched the world and her stardom was instantaneous. The singer has sold more than 14 million records worldwide.

After breaking records and signing her record deal, Boyle announced that she was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. Boyle struggled with the symptoms her entire life and having an actual diagnosis helped her put things into perspective and provided her with the answers that she desperately needed. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight Boyle said, “Asperger’s doesn’t define me. It’s a condition that I have to live with and work through, but I feel more relaxed about myself.”

Susan has over a million followers on Facebook and is involved in many philanthropical efforts – from serving as the ambassador for Save the Children UK to raising funds for the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation through her music sales.

Temple Grandin

One of the most prolific scholars, within the autism community, Temple Grandin, is professor of animal sciences at Colorado State University. Grandin didn’t speak until she was three and a half years old. Her parents said that Grandin would communicate her frustration by screaming, peeping and humming – and doctors recommended that they institutionalize Grandin.

In her book, Grandin mentions, “I have read enough to know that there are still many parents, and yes, professionals too, who believe that ‘once autistic, always autistic.’ This dictum has meant sad and sorry lives for many children diagnosed, as I was in early life, as autistic. To these people, it is incomprehensible that the characteristics of autism can be modified and controlled. However, I feel strongly that I am living proof that they can.”

In 2010, TIME named her one of the 100 most influential people in the world, and HBO produced a biopic based on her life which starred Claire Danes as Grandin. In addition, her work in the animal sciences has significantly developed corrals to improve quality of life for their cattle. Not to mention, she’s an outspoken advocate for the autism community and has aided in real progressive change.

How to Find a Specialist That Specializes in Mental Health

There's nothing wrong with admitting you need help. Read next feature >