Chris Packham: Asperger's And Me

maggiebee | 22:02 Thu 19th Oct 2017 | Film, Media & TV

98 Answers

Sorry if this has already been discussed. Did anyone watch this amazing programme on Tuesday night? I found it really moving. For most of his life, broadcaster and naturalist Chris Packham didn't tell anyone about the one thing that in many ways has defined his entire existence. Chris is autistic - he has Asperger's Syndrome, which means he struggles in social situations, has difficulty with human relationships and is, by his own admission, 'a little bit weird'.
Was on BBC2 and you can watch it on iPlayer.

The Ganges With Sue Perkins. (Spoiler Alert)

Gordon Ramsay On Cocaine

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Buenchico

I think I'll give it a miss. It's a bit too close to home for me ;-)

Mamyalynne

It was an excellent programme, as a Grandmother of three wonderful children on the spectrum (and one gorgeous sweetheart who isn't) I felt it hit the right balance.

maggiebee

Question Author

Glad you enjoyed it Mamya - my son informs me that David Bowie was also on the spectrum and turned to music.

Mamyalynne

I loved Steve Silverman's comments re the Technology and other similar breakthroughs.

Oh yes! I said out loud to the screen.

goodgoalie

I wonder if Chris sees the irony that he loves wildlife, and is a champion of wildlife, but his partner runs a zoo, where animals are held captive in pens and cages?

Mamyalynne

I don't know whether he does irony GG, but you could ask him.

Should Charlotte have sold off the Zoo when her Father died?

maggiebee

Question Author

Didn't know anything about his partner goodgoalie - I was more interested in the programme about his aspergers.

However I have now had a look and found this:
Isle of Wight Zoo: Home of the Wildheart Trust. The IOW Zoo now belongs to The Wildheart Trust (reg charity 1171144) which was set up to make a meaningful impact on the health of the natural world as well as improving the well-being of animals in human care.
The Trust is committed to providing a life-long home to rescued big cats as well as providing a loving home for other animal residents. We aim to engage, involve and empower people from both the heart and the head to help us in the global challenge to make the world a better place for animals.

Sounds like a great place.

Mamyalynne

She had the most wonderful attitude to him too, said she's never really understand him but that didn't matter as loving him was more than enough.

Their love of wildlife is probably part of the glue that binds them.

Mamyalynne

^ she'd

naomi24

I found it somewhat questionable .... and rather depressing.

Mamyalynne

I agree there were parts that were dark and depressing, in particular the piece on ABA.

goodgoalie

Just to be clear: I like Chris Packham; I enjoy his presenting on Springwatch etc, and particularly admire the work he's done to highlight the revolting shooting of songbirds in places like Malta and Cyprus, at times having put himself in danger because he feels so strongly about it. Good for him, and more power to him. I just don't like zoos and never have. Don't like seeing animals kept in pens and cages for people to gawp at, and the often spurious 'conservation that goes on. If others like them or want to support them, then that's up to them; I thought it was strange seeing CP in those surroundings. I agree with PETA's position:
https://www.peta.org/issues/animals-in-entertainment/zoos/

horselady

I have a little grandson on the spectrum too mamyalynne and can absolutely believe that brains like his are the wizards when it comes to technology, as I'm sure you know, the explanations as to how a certain toy works can be mind boggling, as well as being able to narrate the entire script of favourite films!

maggiebee

Question Author

Totally agree horselady, my best friend's son is on the spectrum. He has two degrees and works in a library. His memory is phenomenal and he's a member of our quiz team. I'm sure he doesn't need the other three members as he could probably come out on top all by himself, but he tolerates us ha ha.