"Big Brother" Ian Terry Opens Up About Autism

From Oprah Magazine

While we may tune-in to Big Brother for the strategic gameplay, lies, backstabbing, and showmances, the reality TV game show still gives way to some very real moments between houseguests, and season 22 is no exception.

With Live Feeds up and running, we've gotten to see our favorite All Stars from seasons past reunite. And one budding friendship that fans can't get enough of is that of Kaysar Ridha (BB6, BB7) and Ian Terry (winner of BB14). It all started on their second day in the house when the duo, Janelle Pierzina (BB6, BB7, BB14), and Nicole Anthony (BB21) were talking about the intensity of the Big Brother game. Ian, a 29-year-old management consultant, then opened up to the group, particularly about wanting access to the backyard after being cooped up in the house. But lucky for Ian, the outdoor space has since been opened, and he's reunited with his beloved hammock from BB14.

"This is like autistic hell, and I mean, you know, you can tell right?" he said. "I'm autistic...I gave up on trying to hide it."

Kaysar, a 40-year-old biotech executive, responded that he believes he could have autism as well, but has never been formerly diagnosed by a health care professional.

"Autism is a complex, lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation," the Autism Society reports. "Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a 'spectrum condition' that affects people differently and to varying degrees." According to the CDC, one in 54 children has autism.

Ian further opened up during Wednesday's episode, saying in a Diary Room session, "Being on the spectrum isn't my identity. I'm a smart guy, I have a great family, friends, girlfriend, and I won Big Brother."

A few days later, Kaysar further offered his support, delving into his personal perspective.

"It's what makes people great," he said. "And not to take away from people who do struggle severely from it, or parents who have to raise children who [have it], so I don't want to overstep in any way. But at the same time, it's a point of strength honestly, and I don't mean to bring it up, and I know it's a sensitive topic, but I do want you to know I actually do really care."

Ian responded with appreciation, saying: "It's unique, but it's a good thing...It's just a different ability."

Ian's comment, in addition to a third conversation on Live Feeds, led to overwhelmingly positive feedback from Twitter users—who are notoriously difficult to win over. And it helps that both players were already fan favorites from their respective seasons.

"This Ian/Kaysar relationship is everything I need in my life," tweeted former Survivor contestant Kelley Wentworth.

One fan said, "goodnight ian and kaysar nation only."

Another? "If you dislike Kaysar and Ian, I’m not saying something’s wrong with you, but something is wrong with you."

Here's hoping that this personal relationship evolves into a strategic one because as a former winner, and literal BB legend, they'll need all the help they can get this season.

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