Changing Images Of Disability: from the 1970s to the Present

Hall, Terry

Abstract

Changing Images of Disability in British Television Drama: from the 1970s till the Present is a historical overview that works to discover whether representations of disability have changed and what has caused those changes. It establishes the relationship between genre, production cultures, and representations. Changes in production cultures include shifts in attitudes towards disability, accessible sets, and improved working conditions; these changes have had a bearing on the representations of disability and inclusion. It demonstrates that genre's fluidity has also shaped the types of roles available to disabled actors and that as genre has changed, so have its representations.
The thesis is a three-pronged study that analyses production cultures, representations, and the lived experiences of disabled actors. To produce a multifaceted analysis of the images of disability in two genres, telefantasy and soap opera, their contrasting codes and conventions demonstrates the relationship between genre and representations. The work advocates for inclusive practices that crucially provide opportunities for disabled actors and considers which barriers have and continue to hinder inclusion. The work uniquely offers a space for disabled actors to reflect on their time in the industry, and it provides insight into the reality of being a disabled actor and its associated difficulties. The work demonstrates evident changes in the images of disability, and with broadcasters committing to inclusive initiatives, the changes identified here are only the beginning.

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Oct 23, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 28, 2023
• Award Date: Oct 27, 2023