TV series
The various generations of the Hughes family, who all love, work and fight like any other clan, find they must learn to communicate all over again when the youngest member is diagnosed with autism.
Availability
Checked Sep 5, 2026
The A Word premiered March 22, 2016. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
The various generations of the Hughes family, who all love, work and fight like any other clan, find they must learn to communicate all over again when the youngest member is diagnosed with autism.
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 1
When Joe says the A word for the first time, Paul and Alison know they must talk to him about his autism. Maurice is catapulted back into the life of Louise, and Eddie and Nicola have a secret to keep.
Directed by Susan TullyWritten by Peter BowkerGuest stars Gemma Paige North, Aaron Pierre, Clare Holman
Episode 2
Life for the Hughes family turns upside down as Joe starts at a specialist school in Manchester. Rebecca halts her plans with James, and Louise confides in a stunned Maurice.
Directed by Susan TullyWritten by Peter BowkerGuest stars Aaron Pierre
Episode 3
Maurice and Louise clash. Paul makes an unexpected connection with Sophie. Eddie gears up for date night with his Manchester girlfriend, Holly.
Directed by Susan TullyWritten by Peter Bowker
Episode 4
Paul and Alison reconnect. Maurice has an existential crisis. Eddie teaches Joe to ride bikes.
Directed by Luke SnellinWritten by Peter Bowker
Episode 5
Nicola makes a 'film' of Joe's behaviors. Maurice makes a shocking proposal.
Directed by Luke SnellinWritten by Peter Bowker
Episode 6
An "End of Year Show" at Joe's old school brings his family members together. Paul’s deepest feelings about his son’s autism emerge when Nicola makes a film of Joe’s behaviours. Eddie reaches D-Day with Holly, while Maurice makes a shocking proposal.
Directed by Luke SnellinWritten by Peter BowkerGuest stars Gemma Paige North
Episode information updated Sep 17, 2026
Available now in United States
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BBC OneUnited Kingdom
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Keshet ProductionsUnited Kingdom
