U: Deaf
: The series premiered on Netflix on October 9, 2020 [24].
The story of Deaf U is a Netflix reality series that offers an "unfiltered and often unexpected" look into the lives of a group of Deaf and hard of hearing students at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. [21, 24]. The show, executive produced by Deaf activist and model Nyle DiMarco , aims to showcase the diversity of the Deaf experience and portray Deaf people as multifaceted humans from all walks of life [23, 24]. Core Themes and Narrative Style Deaf U
: Much of the story revolves around the dating lives, hookups, and evolving friendships of the cast members, such as the complicated history between Alexa and Daequan [34]. : The series premiered on Netflix on October 9, 2020 [24]
The series is often described as a "docusoap," blending documentary-style filming with the dramatic flair of a soap opera [34]. It explores several key narrative threads: The show, executive produced by Deaf activist and
: While Gallaudet University allowed filming on its campus in the fall of 2019, the institution had no official role in the creation, casting, or approval of the content [21].
: Nyle DiMarco, a Gallaudet alumnus, partnered with Hot Snakes Media to ensure Deaf individuals were involved both in front of and behind the camera [21].