Overview and Premise
This Close is a television dramedy that centers on two deaf neighbors in Los Angeles whose lives intersect through a missed emergency call. The series follows their evolving relationship as they navigate communication, community, and personal crises with candor and humor. It was created by Shoshannah Stern, a Deaf writer and actress drawing on her lived experience to portray authentic deaf life without filtering it through a hearing-centric lens.
Creators and Production Background
Shoshannah Stern serves as the creator, writer, and executive producer, bringing a nuanced, insider perspective to the storytelling. Production involved collaboration with Deaf consultants and writers to ensure culturally accurate representation. The series was developed for a streaming platform, allowing for thoughtful pacing and character-driven arcs. Its production design emphasizes accessible spaces and captioning-forward storytelling, integrating access into the narrative rather than treating it as an afterthought.
Key Creative Figures
- Shoshannah Stern — creator, writer, executive producer, and inspiration for the show’s grounded perspective.
- James C.E. Burke — executive producer overseeing production and development.
- Joshua S. Weinstein — director of the pilot, known for character-driven storytelling.
Main Cast and Characters
The show centers on Jeff, a charismatic yet guarded deaf man played by a Deaf actor, and Lauren, his hearing neighbor whose impulsiveness upends their quiet dynamic. Supporting characters include family members and community members who reflect the diversity of deaf and hearing experiences. Casting prioritized Deaf and hard-of-hearing actors where possible, reinforcing the show’s commitment to authentic representation.
Principal Cast
| Actor | Character | Role Type |
|---|---|---|
| Shoshannah Stern | Consulting producer; inspiration | Creative leadership |
| Jeff Barnaby (character) | Deaf neighbor, protagonist | Lead |
| Supporting actors | Family, friends, community members | Ensemble |
Themes and Storytelling Approach
This Close explores communication as both a practical tool and an emotional bridge. Episodes delve into isolation, interdependence, and the microaggressions faced by deaf individuals in everyday settings. The storytelling balances quiet, intimate moments with sharp, comedic beats, avoiding melodrama. It foregrounds ASL not as a curiosity but as a rich, full language, and it treats access as a shared responsibility rather than a charity case.
Episode Count, Seasons, and Status
The series aired two seasons, with a total of roughly 20 episodes. Production updates and renewal decisions are best verified through official platform announcements, as viewer demand and platform strategy can influence future seasons. The show’s finite run allows for a compact, complete story arc while leaving room for character growth within its established world.
Season and Episode Overview
| Season | Episodes | Release Period |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ~10 | Initial launch window |
| 2 | ~10 | Follow-up season |
Cultural Impact and Community Reception
This Close has been praised for centering deaf perspectives in a mainstream format, offering visibility without tokenism. Deaf viewers highlight its accurate ASL use and nuanced portrayal of deaf joy, conflict, and community. Hearing audiences appreciate its accessibility-first approach, with clear captioning and contextual storytelling that invites empathy without requiring prior knowledge of deaf culture. Critics note its modest but meaningful contribution to inclusive television.
Accessibility and Viewing Context
From its set design to its narrative choices, the show embeds accessibility into its DNA. Subtitles are treated as primary text rather than a supplement, and visual storytelling compensates thoughtfully for auditory information. For viewers, this means engaging with a show that rewards attention to visual detail and challenges assumptions about who gets to be a protagonist. Streaming platforms list specific caption options; checking language and tech settings ensures the intended viewing experience.
How It Stands Out in the TV Landscape
Unlike many procedurals or broad ensemble casts, This Close focuses tightly on the relationship between two neighbors, using that lens to explore broader social dynamics. Its pacing is deliberate, its humor dry, and its emotional beats sincere. In a market saturated with high-concept hooks, the show’s power lies in its restraint and authenticity, making it a touchstone for representation and a model of thoughtful, inclusive storytelling.