Holly Robinson Peete, the renowned actress, recently opened up about a transformative moment in her life that occurred when her son RJ was diagnosed with autism. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood event in Hollywood, California, Robinson Peete shared insights on her son’s journey after being diagnosed with autism at a young age.
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Robinson Peete emotionally reflected on RJ’s early years, recalling how he was once told he would never be able to achieve many things. However, fast forward to 2024, and RJ had not only defied those initial expectations but had also achieved significant milestones, such as winning his second World Series ring with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he has been working since 2016. The proud mother expressed gratitude for RJ’s progress, calling it a “won’t he do it moment.”
The actress highlighted the importance of finding one’s passion, citing it as a pivotal turning point in RJ’s life. She described the autism journey as a “wild ride,” referring to it as the “autism express.” Robinson Peete credited RJ’s job at the Dodgers, which he landed at the age of 18, as a transformative moment that provided him with stability, support, and a sense of belonging within the community.
Robinson Peete commended the Dodgers for embracing RJ, providing him with not just a job but also a supportive environment where he could thrive. She emphasised the significance of such inclusive workplaces that offer additional support for individuals with autism to foster their growth and success. RJ’s role as a clubhouse attendant at the Dodgers has not only given him a sense of purpose but has also allowed him to form meaningful connections and develop self-advocacy skills.
Reflecting on RJ’s journey with the Dodgers since 2016, Robinson Peete expressed her admiration for the team’s commitment to supporting her son. RJ’s positive experience at the Dodgers was sparked by the initiative shown by Dodgers executive Lon Rosen, who had seen an episode of the family’s reality television series, For Peete’s Sake, that documented RJ’s job search. RJ shared his appreciation for the camaraderie and friendship he found within the team, highlighting the profound impact it had on his life.
As Robinson Peete continues to advocate for autism awareness and inclusion, she hopes that RJ’s story will inspire others and encourage more organisations to create opportunities for individuals with autism to thrive. RJ’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of support, understanding, and acceptance in enabling individuals with autism to reach their full potential. The Peete family’s story resonates as a beacon of hope and resilience in navigating the challenges of autism, showcasing the remarkable achievements that can be attained with unwavering support and determination.