This week’s episode of Survivor featured one of the most moving, emotional moments I think I’ve ever seen on TV. Early in this season, Eva – who’s on the autistic spectrum – decided she would keep that secret from the others in case they saw her autism as a weakness. But she did choose to share with one other contestant in her tribe, Joe, who she felt she could trust due to his strong ‘dad’ energy. Last week, the tribes were reshuffled leaving Eva and Joe on separate teams. A challenge for food this week had the contestants each having to maneuver a ball across a tilting table maze. Eva, finding it difficult to work the ball to its resting place, became overwhelmed and began to spiral into what she calls an “episode.” Finally completing the challenge, Eva found she couldn’t pull herself out of the episode even as her tribe mates (who do not know she’s on the spectrum) congratulated her. Watching from several yards away, Joe – knowing its not his place to share her secret – quietly tried to catch her eye in an effort to help calm and comfort her. Here’s the moment right after Eva completed the task. Joe’s empathy is palpable in its humanity. I was not ready for this. I’ve mentioned in the past here on TRR that my brother is on the spectrum. I’ve experienced my brother moving from frustration to episodes like this. Most people don’t have the wherewithal to help in these moments. So, you can imagine how I felt watching Joe step in. For context, here’s the full challenge sequence cued up to Eva stepping up to the board.
————————————————
In case you missed it, the latest episode of The Randy Report podcast is up. Hit the play button below for this week’s LGBTQ headlines in a quick ten minute report.
Discover more from The Randy Report
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.