From Hollywood to research labs, some of the greatest minds have embraced their neurodivergent identities— and transformed the world in the process. and transformed the world in the process. Here are some famous people with autism who have utilized their diagnosis to become achievers, advocates, and strong individuals.
Temple Grandin: The Voice of Autism in Science
Dr. Temple Grandin is perhaps one of the most famous people with autism in the world. At the time of her diagnosis with autism, the disorder was poorly understood, yet she went on to revolutionize the livestock industry single-handedly through her humane animal handling designs. She’s also a leader in autism advocacy. Her “think in pictures” enabled her to create in ways that others could not, a testament to neurodivergence as a strength. Her TED Talk and bestsellers like Thinking in Pictures transformed society’s understanding of autism.
Dan Aykroyd: Comedy, Creativity, and Autism
Hollywood legend and Ghostbusters icon Dan Aykroyd has been open about his Asperger’s diagnosis, an autism-spectrum condition. Aykroyd explains his ghost obsession and police fixation as part of neurodivergent thinking—and claims it was the catalyst for creating the Ghostbusters concept. His openness has helped to make it more acceptable to talk about adult autism, particularly in the arts world. He’s living proof that being different actually produces revolutionary creativity.
Daryl Hannah: Shining Onscreen and Off
Actress Daryl Hannah, known for her roles in Splash, Blade Runner, and Kill Bill, announced that she had been diagnosed with autism when she was a child. In a candid interview, she explained how she used to be complete introvert and socially challenged operating in Hollywood. But rather than hiding her diagnosis, Hannah has raised her voice for greater acceptance and recognition of neurodiverse actors within the industry. Her experience dispels the fantasy that emotional depth is incompatible with autism.
Anthony Hopkins: Oscar Winner and Authentic About Autism
Sir Anthony Hopkins, the iconic actor of The Silence of the Lambs’ Hannibal Lecter, has revealed that he found out about his autism spectrum disorder only in later life. He is a solitary person with compulsive tendencies, labeling himself and echoing classic autism traits. But the same traits also fuel his genius and passion as a performer. Hopkins credits his laser beam focus and emotional restraint as the secret to his success as an actor— traits that are extremely common in high-functioning autistic adults.
You’ve watched him act, now hear his music! And The Waltz Goes on
Greta Thunberg: A Voice for the Planet and Autism
Greta Thunberg is not only one of the global leaders in climate activism, but also a good role model for autistic adolescents. Diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, Greta has been highly candid about how her autism fuels her persistence and articulation while advocating for the world. She refers to her autism as her “superpower,” and her advocacy has been part of reshaping the narrative surrounding teens on the spectrum—focusing on strength, passion, and the possibility of sparking global change.
Changing the Conversation Around Autism
The lives of these five celebrities with autism unveil a valuable fact: different is not worse. Rather, it’s a place of ingenuity, grit, and fortitude. Whether it’s influencing policy, bringing strong stories to life on screen, or pushing what’s achievable in science and activism, autistic people continue to demonstrate that inclusion is a win-win. As the world becomes more open and accepting, we must continue to share the success stories of neurologically unique people, and welcoming and embracing autism not just in April—but throughout the year.
