Speechless

Speechless follows the DiMeo family as they push through a world that often doesn’t know how to fit them in. Maya DiMeo is a mom who won’t settle for excuses or quiet acceptance when her son JJ and the rest of the family face obstacles. She fights for fairness and inclusion with relentless energy, a mix of warmth and sharp wit. Jimmy, Maya’s patient husband, anchors the chaos with steady humor and a bottom line of love. Ray, Dylan, and JJ bring childhood mischief, big feelings, and blunt honesty that keeps the family grounded. Together they search for a place that treats JJ with dignity and gives him a real voice in the world.

Created by Scott Silveri, Speechless premiered on ABC in 2016. The show stars Minnie Driver as Maya alongside a core family cast including John Ross Bowie, Micah Fowler, Mason Cook, and Kyla Kenedy.

Speechless earned praise for centering a family with a son who has a disability and showing everyday life with warmth, humor, and real stakes. It prompted conversations about accessibility, inclusion in schools, and the promise that a family’s voice should be heard, and advocates found hope in its approach.

Critics highlighted the show's blend of heartfelt moments and sharp social commentary, pairing relatable family dynamics with on screen bravery in facing bias and bureaucratic hurdles. The series leans into resilience, adaptability, and the way love can shape a community.