Watch Deaf U

Deaf U is a reality series on Netflix that takes a deep dive into the deaf community at Gallaudet University, a renowned school for the deaf and hard of hearing. The show follows a group of deaf and hard of hearing college students, mainly undergraduates, as they navigate their way through college life, friendships, love, relationships, and identity, all while dealing with the unique challenges of being deaf.

The show's lead character, Rodney Burford, is a popular and charismatic student who serves as a bridge between different groups of deaf students on campus. Rodney, who is deaf himself, is the captain of the school's basketball team and a well-known party guy who loves to have fun. He is also dealing with the aftermath of a bad break-up with his ex-girlfriend, who is also deaf, and is about to graduate from the university.

Alexa Paulay-Simmons, who is also deaf, is a freshman at the school and a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. She is trying to adjust to college life and make friends while staying true to herself and her identity. Alexa is also dealing with issues related to her family and her estranged mother, who is also deaf.

Cheyenna Clearbrook is another major character on the show, and she is deaf and transgender. Cheyenna is a sophomore and a social media influencer with a large following on Instagram. Cheyenna is outspoken and unapologetically herself, and she uses her platform to advocate for deaf and trans rights.

The show also introduces viewers to several other deaf students at Gallaudet University, each with their own unique personalities and stories. We meet Renate Rose, who is deaf and identifies as a lesbian, and goes through a tough time when her ex-girlfriend shows up on campus. Daequan Taylor is a deaf student who is also studying in college for the first time and is nervous and unsure about his future. Dalton Taylor is deaf and has cochlear implants but struggles with feeling like he doesn't fit in.

Throughout the show, these various characters share their stories and experiences, discussing everything from relationships and sex to challenges in communication and acceptance in the deaf community. The series delves into common themes that are universally relatable, such as identity, relationships, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness.

The show is shot beautifully and features cinematic quality cinematography, with a strong focus on capturing the unique experiences of the deaf community. The use of American Sign Language (ASL) is prominent in the show, with subtitles and voiceovers to help non-ASL speakers understand the dialogue. The show does an excellent job of portraying both the deaf community's strengths and struggles while highlighting the importance of language and communication for individuals experiencing deafness.

Overall, Deaf U is an entertaining, engaging, and insightful reality series that delves into the complex lives of deaf individuals. The show tackles key issues about deaf culture and the relationships between the deaf and the hearing society, all while showcasing the vibrant, varied, and unique experiences of its characters. Whether or not you use ASL or know anyone in the deaf community, Deaf U provides a fascinating glimpse into the experiences of those who do.