Many will be hoping that more episodes get commissioned.
Michael Sheen’s one-off factual special The Assembly has earned a rapturous response on social media, with both the actor himself and his charming participants receiving high praise.
The programme saw Sheen interviewed by a group of 35 autistic, neurodivergent or learning disabled individuals in a remarkable session that covered a very wide range of topics.
Broadcast during Autism Acceptance Week, the show has been celebrated for giving a platform to neurodivergent communities, while Sheen’s sensitive and thoughtful handling of each question made it truly heartwarming viewing.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) described The Assembly as a “lovely” production, pointing to one particular moment when participant Leo was selected to ask a question – and the group patiently waited for him to find the right words.
He went on to quiz Sheen on his appreciation for the poet Dylan Thomas, asking whether their shared Welsh heritage is a factor in why the work resonates so strongly. The actor described it as a “fantastic” question in his detailed answer.
This programme was filled with so many lovely moments and I think this was one of my favourites.
— Imogen 🏴 (@Imogell) April 5, 2024
A refreshing interviewing experience and Michael Sheen was so lovely throughout 💙 #TheAssembly #MichaelSheen pic.twitter.com/4Ooxl6EY58
Another X user concurred that the quality of the questioning was very high, adding that Sheen’s responses were a “masterclass” in treating people with “respect and kindness”.
Well that was a phenomenal bit of television. Brilliant questions, and Michael Sheen delivering a masterclass in how to treat everyone with respect and kindness. Extremely moving. #TheAssembly
— Rob Williams (@BobJWilliams) April 5, 2024
Another on social media was moved by Sheen’s strong advocacy for neurodivergent and disabled people in the arts, where opportunities for these groups have historically been harder to come by.
“What a truly wonderful, humbling [and] moving piece of telly,” they concluded.
Just been watching @michaelsheen in the #TheAssembly. What a truly wonderful, humbling & moving piece of telly. His honesty and humanity shone through when discussing how people with autism (and other visible/invisible) disabilities should have same opportunities in the arts.
— 💙 🇺🇦Fritha Malcouronne. 🇺🇦 💙 (@NomadicWriter) April 5, 2024
Several viewers were reduced to “tears” by the special programme, stemming from the palpable enthusiasm and empathy of all involved as well as a touching rendition of The Beatles’ Here Comes The Sun featured at the end.
❤️ #TheAssembly was brilliant, it made me laugh and shed some tears. The way Michael answered each question, he was so sweet and patient. God I love this man. Michael Sheen you're a treasure pic.twitter.com/is7hC0JzsC
— Chío (retired)🌈🐻3️⃣ (@achtungchio) April 5, 2024
Another X commenter clarified their tears were those of “joy”, describing The Assembly as a “beautiful reminder of our humanity and open hearted connections” as well as a “lovely contribution to the world”.
#TheAssembly heavenly TV. Tears of joy. THIS is a beautiful reminder of our humanity and open hearted connections, thank you to all involved, what a lovely contribution to the world ☺️🙏🏻
— Daisy B (@deebee_now) April 6, 2024
The Assembly is based on a French format (originally titled Les Rencontres du Papotin), which proved an enormous hit across the channel.
No further episodes are confirmed just yet, but programme producer Michelle Singer has told Variety that representatives of “really significant named talent” are “very up for being available should we move to series”.
The Assembly is available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Documentaries coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on.
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