New Horizons Brings Insight to New A&E Series which Offers an Intimate Look Into the Lives of Young Men and Women Born with Down Syndrome

New Horizons is proud to announce its involvement with A&E Network’s new ground breaking original docu-series “Born This Way.”

The production company behind “Keeping up with the Kardashians” and other reality television staples will debut a new documentary series following young adults with Down syndrome.

The six-episode, hour-long series from Bunim-Murray Productions premieres Tuesday, December 8 at 10 PM ET/PT.  It follows seven young men and women born with Down syndrome as they pursue their passions and lifelong dreams, explore friendships, romantic relationships and work, all while defying society’s expectations.

For the show, cameras followed seven Southern California young adults with Down syndrome and their families as they navigate jobs and relationships and look to gain greater independence. Among those featured is Steven, who works two jobs and knows the title and year of every Oscar-winning film, John who is pursuing a career in rap music and Cristina who works at a middle school and has a boyfriend of four years who she plans to marry.

In their willingness and courage to openly share their lives, through a lens that is not often shown on television, we learn they have high hopes just like anyone else. The series also gives voice to the parents, allowing them to talk about the joy their son or daughter brings to their family, and the challenges they face in helping them live as independently as possible.

“We are proud and excited to have had a part in working with our good friends at Bunim-Murray Productions to help bring an honest portrayal of those with Down syndrome to television. I am confident this important series will change the way we look at individuals with special needs,” said Cynthia Sewell, New Horizons President and CEO.

Jonathan Murray, Executive Producer of the show says, “We are pleased to again partner with New Horizons; as our consultants on this project, their expertise has been invaluable.”

New Horizons’ relationship with Bunim-Murray Productions began in 2009 when, based on the agency’s expertise with persons with special needs, it assisted the production company in selecting cast members and providing support throughout the filming of another series depicting people with developmental disabilities in their every day lives.

“Born This Way” is produced by Bunim-Murray Productions (“I Am Cait,” “The Real World”). Executive producers for Bunim-Murray are Jon Murray, Gil Goldschein, Laura Korkoian and Barry Hennessey.  Executive producers for A&E Network are Drew Tappon and Elaine Frontain Bryant.  A&E has also partnered with celebrated global non-profit organization Best Buddies International on the production.