Reproductive Health
At the Norman Lear Center, we believe storytelling can shape public understanding and inspire action on the most urgent issues of our time—including reproductive rights and women’s health. Our work explores how entertainment, news, and popular culture can elevate these narratives, counter misinformation, and reflect the real-life stakes of access and care. Through research, partnerships, and outreach to the creative community, we help media makers tell compelling, accurate, and impactful stories that highlight the complexities of reproductive health and the importance of access, care, and informed choice.
Research
A new study conducted with ANSIRH at UCSF finds that accurate portrayals of abortion in storylines on A Million Little Things (ABC), Better Things (FX), and Station 19 (ABC) fostered greater understanding of abortion access, prevalence, and safety, and even inspired some to take actions in support of reproductive rights.
After Roe v. Wade was overturned, Grey’s Anatomy addressed the real-world impact of abortion bans with input from health experts. The Lear Center’s Media Impact Project analyzed Reddit reactions to a 2022 episode, revealing how the show’s storytelling sparked public dialogue and reflected viewers’ real-life concerns.
Outreach
HOLLYWOOD, HEALTH & SOCIETY works with the entertainment industry to support authentic, engaging storytelling about reproductive rights and women’s health. Through tipsheets, writer convenings, script consultations, and other outreach, we offer practical resources and creative inspiration. By meeting writers and producers where they are, we help spark new ideas and empower stories that reflect the real challenges women face—and the importance of access, care, and autonomy.