Speechless (2016)
The heartfelt ABC comedy following the DiMeo family as they champion their son JJ and navigate life with humor, love, and fierce determination.
Speechless - Series Information
- Original Title: Speechless
- First Air Year: 2016
- Last Air Year: 2019
- Created by: Scott Silveri
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 21 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 63
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 21, 2016 (United States - TV-PG), September 21, 2016 (Germany - 16), September 21, 2016 (France - 16), September 21, 2016 (India - U), September 21, 2016 (Australia - M), September 21, 2016 (Mexico - AA), September 21, 2016 (Italy - T), September 21, 2016 (Spain - 13)
- Networks: ABC
- Production Companies: 20th Century Fox Television, Silver & Gold Productions, ABC Studios, The Detective Agency
- Production Countries: United States of America
Speechless - Plot
Maya DiMeo is a mom on a mission who will do anything for her husband, Jimmy, and kids Ray, Dylan, and JJ, her eldest son with special needs. As Maya fights injustices both real and imagined, the family works to make a new home for themselves and searches for just the right person to give JJ his "voice."
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Speechless - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Scott Silveri
Main Cast
- Minnie Driver
- John Ross Bowie
- Mason Cook
- Micah Fowler
- Kyla Kenedy
- Cedric Yarbrough
- Marin Hinkle
- Jonathan Slavin
- Sedona James
- Liz Cackowski
Writers
- Daniel Chun
- Matt Roller
- Seth Kurland
- Scott Silveri
- Carrie Rosen
Executive Producers
- Scott Silveri
- Jake Kasdan
- Melvin Mar
- Christine Gernon
- Daniel Chun
Speechless - FAQs
Is the actor playing JJ actually disabled in Speechless?
Yes. Micah Fowler, who plays JJ DiMeo, has cerebral palsy in real life. His casting was widely praised as a landmark moment for authentic disability representation on American network television, and his performance earned the show significant critical recognition.
Why was Speechless cancelled after three seasons?
ABC cancelled Speechless in 2019 after three seasons due to declining ratings. Despite a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim for its representation of disability, the show's viewership numbers were not sufficient to justify renewal. It concluded with 63 episodes across its run.
Where can you stream Speechless online?
Speechless is available to purchase digitally on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. All three seasons can be bought and streamed through these platforms. Check JustWatch for the most current availability in your region.
Who are the main cast members of Speechless?
The main cast includes Minnie Driver as Maya DiMeo, John Ross Bowie as Jimmy DiMeo, Mason Cook as Ray, Micah Fowler as JJ, Kyla Kenedy as Dylan, and Cedric Yarbrough as Kenneth, JJ's aide. Marin Hinkle and Jonathan Slavin also appear in recurring roles.
Is Speechless based on a true story?
Speechless is not directly based on a single true story, but creator Scott Silveri drew on personal experience — his brother has cerebral palsy. This autobiographical inspiration gives the series its emotional authenticity and nuanced portrayal of family life with a disabled member.
How many seasons and episodes does Speechless have?
Speechless ran for three seasons on ABC, comprising 63 episodes in total. Season 1 contained 23 episodes, Season 2 had 18 episodes, and Season 3 wrapped up the series with 22 episodes. The show aired from September 2016 through April 2019.
What is the content rating for Speechless?
Speechless is rated TV-PG in the United States, making it suitable for general family audiences with parental guidance suggested for younger viewers. The show deals with disability and family dynamics in a comedic, accessible way appropriate for most age groups.
How was Speechless received by critics and audiences?
Speechless earned strong critical praise throughout its run, particularly for its honest and humorous portrayal of disability. Critics highlighted Minnie Driver's energetic performance and Micah Fowler's authentic casting. The show holds a strong approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and was celebrated for its inclusive storytelling.
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