The A Word: Viewers praise Christopher Eccleston drama tackling autism
VIEWERS have lauded new BBC series The A Word following the broadcast of the first episode tonight.
Viewers have praised The A Word on Twitter
Many people took to social media to praise the drama for dealing with the subject of autism and raising awareness of the condition.
The programme was the hot topic of conversation on Twitter and soon became the top trend on the micro blogging platform.
"#TheAWord is a great drama, I hope people watch it to help gain more of a understanding of autism," posted one person on the site.
Another echoed them, writing: "I work with some amazing autistic children and I adore my work. Hoping #TheAWord will educate more to understand autism."
The A Word: Trailer
There was much praise for the young actor who played Joe
I know parents who've experience that sense off loss. About time it's finally mainstream
One audience member hailed the cast of the series, saying: "#TheAWord brilliantly acted by everyone, especially the little boy playing Joe."
"#TheAWord I am impressed. I know parents who've experience that sense off loss. About time it's finally mainstream. #autism-mum #autism," tweeted another.
The six-part drama follows a couple coming to terms with their son Joe's autism diagnosis around his fifth birthday and the impact it has upon the whole family.
Viewers lauded the cast for their performances
I work with some amazing autistic children and I adore my work. Hoping #TheAWord will educate more to understand autism
— luci middleton (@lucimiddleton_) March 22, 2016
#TheAWord I am impressed. I know parents who've experience that sense off loss. About time it's finally mainstream. #autism-mum #autism
— selina Ramble (@wolfmummy) March 22, 2016
#TheAWord is a great drama, I hope people watch it to help gain more of a understanding of autism
— Hannah Bremner (@hanbremner) March 22, 2016
The A Word follows the impact of an autism diagnosis on a family
The drama stars Doctor Who actor Christopher Eccleston as Joe's grandfather, while Lee Ingleby and Morven Christie play the parents.
Young star Max Vento takes on the role of Joe, who is at the heart of the programme.
The A Word continues on BBC One on Tuesdays at 9pm.