Why Everyone’s Talking About Autism?

If you’ve been on BookTok, HBO, or Crave lately, you may have seen people buzzing about Shane Hollander from Heated Rivalry. Many readers resonate with his blunt honesty, emotional intensity, and single-minded focus leaving some to wonder: Is this autistic-coded? Whether or not a fictional character is intentionally written that way, these conversations are opening the door to the important topic of understanding the autism spectrum.

Hudson Williams as Shane Hollander in Episode 5 of Heated Rivalry Courtesy of HBO Max

What does “autism spectrum” mean?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how people experience communication, emotions, sensory input, and relationships. It’s called a spectrum because it looks different in every individual there’s no single “autistic personality.” While everyone is unique, research and clinical experience suggest some patterns which vary between men and women.

More commonly noticed in men:

• Direct or literal communication

• Intense focus and specific interests

• Difficulty interpreting unspoken social rules

• Preference for routine and predictability

More commonly overlooked in women:

• Masking or “camouflaging” social difficulties

• High empathy but deep emotional overwhelm

• Chronic anxiety, burnout, or people-pleasing

• Strong internal world with fewer outward signs

This difference is one reason many women are diagnosed later in life or not at all.

Autism exists on a wide spectrum, while some experience it as a strength, others face severe symptoms that can be deeply challenging and require ongoing support. When understood and supported, individuals with autism can bring deep loyalty and honesty, intense passion for their interests, creativity, and dedication into their relationships. They often hold strong personal values, a clear sense of justice, and approach problems from unique and innovative perspectives.

If a character like Shane feels relatable, it may be less about labels and more about recognizing how diverse, complex, and valid the human mind is.