The PBS KIDS series Carl the Collector comes to life in Northern Wisconsin at a community launch event in Manitowish Waters celebrating neurodiversity.

PBS KIDS’ newest animated series, Carl the Collector, introduces viewers to Carl, a sweet-natured raccoon who loves collecting — and happens to be autistic.

Premiering nationally in November 2024, the series gently celebrates neurodiversity as Carl navigates friendships and self-expression in the colorful town of Fuzzytown.

Local engagement in Manitowish Waters

To mark the premiere, PBS Wisconsin hosted a free community launch event on November 10, 2024, at the North Lakeland Discovery Center. Families, educators, and local partners gathered to explore the show’s inclusive themes through sensory-friendly activities, episode screenings, and hands-on learning. Children met turtles from the Discovery Center and a horse from the Scholl Community Impact Group!

Thoughtful representation on screen

Created by author and illustrator Zachariah OHora, Carl the Collector is the first PBS KIDS series to feature an autistic lead character. Developed with input from neurodivergent advisors, the show includes a main cast of both neurotypical and neurodivergent friends. Each episode supports social-emotional learning, helping young viewers understand different communication styles, sensory preferences and the value of empathy.

A smiling child wearing a gray winter coat and an orange PBS Wisconsin tiger headband poses next to a large cutout of "Carl the Collector," a raccoon character holding jars of collected items. The cutout features PBS Kids and PBS Wisconsin logos. Behind them, a wooden bookshelf displays nature-themed books and educational materials.

A child strikes a pose with Carl the Collector at the launch party in Manitowish Waters. (Source: PBS Wisconsin)

We didn’t want Carl’s autism to be a plot twist—we wanted it to be part of who he is from the start … He’s curious, he’s caring and sometimes he gets overwhelmed. Like a lot of kids, he’s just figuring out how to be himself.

Zachariah OHoraAUTHOR & ILLUSTRATOR

Local partners support inclusive activities

The event highlighted PBS Wisconsin’s mission to bring national content to life in meaningful, local ways. Education and engagement staff partnered with organizations including the Autism Society of Central Wisconsin, Children’s Resource Center – North, North Lakeland Discovery Center, and Scholl Community Impact Group to host storytelling corners, guided art projects and inclusive play spaces.

Creating spaces where every child belongs

Carl the Collector fosters important conversations about neurodiversity, helping children and adults alike build a broader understanding of inclusion. With its thoughtful storytelling and strong local engagement opportunities, the series reflects PBS Wisconsin’s commitment to creating spaces — on screen and off — where every child feels seen, supported and celebrated.

1 in 31 children

aged 8 have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(Source: CDC, May 2025)

I am so very excited for the premier of Carl! Our world needs this show and will be so much better because of the empathy it will illustrate for us all.

Lisa, PBS Wisconsin ViewerCARL THE COLLECTOR

Carl the Collector

CARL THE COLLECTOR is a 2D animated series for children ages 4-8 that follows the everyday adventures of Carl, a warm-hearted autistic raccoon who enjoys collecting things and loves his friends and family in Fuzzytown. Carl pays extraordinarily close attention to detail and comes up with unique ideas that others might not consider.

VISIT CARL ON PBS KIDS