Down Syndrome Takes Center Stage On Fox’s ‘Glee’

When Fox’s “Glee” returns Tuesday night, so too will actress Lauren Potter, who has Down syndrome.

Lauren Potter, left, with co-star Jane Lynch. (Courtesy: Robin Sinkhorn)

Potter appeared on three episodes during Glee’s first season, playing high school cheerleader Becky Jackson. Now, her character will be back for at least two more episodes — the season premiere this week and a second episode airing Sept. 28.

The part-time actress from Riverside, Calif. first learned about the role through the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles. Potter auditioned and was chosen over 13 other girls to be on the show.

“I think it was a brilliant idea,” Potter, 20, told Disability Scoop last spring about Glee’s inclusion of characters with disabilities. “It tells Americans that it’s really good to have a daughter or son who has Down syndrome.”