A new animated series, Pablo: Next Level, produced by Northern Ireland’s Paper Owl Films in collaboration with Crayola Studios, is poised to introduce themes of inclusivity and understanding to children worldwide. The show, designed for ages five to eight, uses humor and authentic storytelling to explore the experiences of an autistic child navigating school life, aiming to foster empathy and acceptance among young viewers.

A New Chapter for a Beloved Character

Pablo: Next Level is a spin-off from the critically acclaimed pre-school series Pablo, which garnered multiple awards for its groundbreaking portrayal of an autistic lead character. The original series achieved significant international success, reaching over 190 territories in 35 languages. This new installment follows Pablo as he embarks on his school journey, a significant developmental milestone that presents unique challenges and opportunities for autistic children.

The series was commissioned by CBBC and RTÉ Kids, with crucial funding and support provided by Northern Ireland Screen and Coimisiún na Meán. Its development prioritizes the perspective, voice, and values of autistic children, offering a window into their social and emotional experiences during formative school years. The creators believe that by centering the autistic child’s viewpoint, the show can significantly enhance how children understand and interact with one another.

Humor as a Superpower for Understanding

The core strength of Pablo: Next Level lies in its “comedic realism.” Through Pablo’s adventures, depicted with his signature sketchpad and a cast of loyal animal friends, the show tackles everyday school “pickles” with authenticity and humor. This approach provides young audiences with a genuine and often funny glimpse into the life of an autistic child in early education. The series aims to destigmatize differences and promote empathy by leveraging shared laughter.

A key aspect of the show’s integrity is its commitment to authentic representation. All 40 episodes are informed by the actual experiences of autistic children. Furthermore, the writing and voice acting prominently feature young autistic talent, including several professional comedians. This collaborative effort ensures that the narratives are not only relatable but also deeply resonant with the lived experiences of the community it represents.

Championing Inclusion On and Off Screen

Richard Williams, CEO of Northern Ireland Screen, highlighted the series’ significance, stating, “Paper Owl’s Pablo: Next Level is a powerful example of how great storytelling can help children and families see themselves and their experiences reflected on screen.” He commended the team’s dedication to portraying autism with honesty and insight, creating a character who celebrates diversity and connects with viewers globally. Williams also emphasized the value of involving neurodiverse writers, artists, and contributors, whose lived experiences enrich the storytelling with unique depth.

Gráinne McGuinness, Creative Director at Paper Owl Films, expressed enthusiasm for the new series. “We’re extremely excited to take viewers on this new journey with Pablo,” she said. “Our boy is at school now, a challenging milestone for any child but one which exposes autistic children to additional, often unseen and usually misunderstood, difficulties.” McGuinness elaborated on the show’s mission: “By working with autistic writers and actors to put these challenges on screen, we’re hoping to help autistic kids be, accept, and enjoy their true selves at school.”

McGuinness further noted the prevalence of exclusion and bullying faced by autistic children, underscoring the series’ broader goal: “we want to take wider audiences on that journey of acceptance too.” She concluded by reinforcing the power of humor, “Laughter is the most universal of languages and we believe the show’s comedy credentials will have everyone laughing and learning together.”

Global Reach and Impact

Following its premiere on CBBC and RTÉ Kids in the UK and Ireland on September 7th, Pablo: Next Level is set for a worldwide rollout. The production team anticipates that the series will achieve a global reach similar to its predecessor, Pablo, which became a worldwide hit. The show’s focus on relatable, humorous, and authentic storytelling about inclusivity is expected to resonate with diverse audiences across different cultures and backgrounds.

The series aims to equip children with the tools to understand and appreciate differences, fostering a more inclusive environment in schools and beyond. By presenting the world through the eyes of an autistic child and using humor as a bridge, Pablo: Next Level seeks to cultivate a generation that is more empathetic, accepting, and understanding of neurodiversity.