Although Marlee Matlin and Deanne Bray are the first deaf actors or actresses people think of when the subject of deaf people on television comes up, there were many others who paved the way for them over the years on television programs in the United States and elsewhere. Someday, I would like for someone to put together a DVD with all deaf television character appearances over the years, because there are many I have never seen and would like the chance to see, or see again. (Notes: This article does not include soap operas, reality shows, or programs like Sesame Street. The focus is on regularly aired dramas, comedies, etc. Also, if terms like "deaf-mute" appear, that is because that is how the characters were described originally.)
1950s and 1960s
Deaf characters have been on television since the 1950s! However, it was not until the late 60s that the first deaf actor appeared on television.
1970s
In the early 1970s, most of the deaf character roles were played by hearing actors. By the middle 1970s, there were more deaf actors on television.
1980s
If there was a golden age of deafness on television, it would have to be the 1980s. During that decade, you could hardly turn on the television without seeing a deaf actor in a deaf role.
1990s
There were numerous opportunities for deaf actors on television in the 1990s. During this decade, Marlee Matlin proved she could act on television.
Modern Times
Today, there are so many deaf appearances on television as either guest stars or even as the stars of the program, that it is impossible to keep up.
