ESPN football analyst Dan Orlovsky was moved to tears during a live broadcast of NFL Live on Tuesday as his 14-year-old autistic son, Madden, appeared on the show to mark World Autism Awareness Day. The segment, introduced by co-presenter Laura Rutledge, celebrated Madden's artistic talents, with his doodles and artwork displayed around the studio.
Orlovsky, 42, spoke proudly of his son's creativity, noting that while many children excel in sports, Madden thrives through his art. 'This is his,' Orlovsky said, becoming choked up as he described Madden as a 'special, special human'. Rutledge reassured him, saying, 'It’s OK to be emotional about this.'
During the broadcast, Madden added illustrations to a whiteboard and studio screens, operated a camera, and duetted with his father on a rendition of a song by the Philadelphia Eagles, his favourite team. Orlovsky broke down in tears when Madden stopped singing to tell him, 'I love you.'
Addressing the camera, Madden listed his interests, including drawing, video games, and his favourite foods. He also sent love to his mother and siblings at home. Orlovsky wept openly as Madden hugged him, with reporter Adam Schefter calling Madden a 'hero'.
The segment drew widespread praise online, with viewers describing it as 'the best show they’ve ever put on air' and commending Orlovsky as a 'terrific father'. The National Autistic Society notes that around one in 100 people in the UK are autistic, with many using strategies such as masking to navigate social situations.
