Work

Disability representation in the ITV crime drama Midsomer Murders : A balance between audience acceptance and alienation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores disability representation in the transnational television crime drama Midsomer Murders (1997-present). It focuses on Lana who has a partial right arm and how she is positioned as a central figure in the Christmas 2023 episode. The analysis reveals a complex and contradictory pattern of interwoven ableist and anti-ableist ideas. Even though negative stereotypes are avoided, Lana’s portrayal is simultaneously visually and emotionally conditioned to avoid alienating audiences. The study speaks to critical scholars across disciplines with a broad interest in the fictional television crime drama and its abilities to communicate social (diversity) issues.

Source: Critical Studies in Television The International Journal of Television Studies

DOI: 10.1177/17496020251412258

Author: Åsa Kroon

Institution: Örebro University

Language: English

Topic: Disability Rights and Representation

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650