CBS announced Thursday its Performers With Disabilities Talent Initiative in an effort to give historically underrepresented performers increased opportunities on television. The initiative will begin taking effect in the 2022-2023 broadcast season.
The network says it is committed to achieving meaningful representation and inclusion for all underrepresented groups, including performers with disabilities in series regular, guest star or co-starring roles in current series and pilots, playing characters specifically written with a disability as well as roles that do not specify one.
“By focusing on professional growth and supporting these performers, this initiative helps to provide opportunities and much-needed exposure in the industry,” said Claudia Lyon, executive vice president of talent and casting at CBS Entertainment.