An excellent example is Sally Field’s recurring character of Maggie on NBC-TV’s top-rated ER. She played the bipolar disorder-affected mother of Abby (played by Maura Tierney) in a well-received performance. Sally Field researched the disease extensively before taking on the role, and is credited with delivering a faithful attempt at an accurate and sympathetic portrayal. But while it was a good example of bipolar disorder, it wasn’t flawless. See http://bipolar.about.com/library/weekly/aa001127a.htm for a detailed critique of the story and more information.
Still, even if flaws can be found, the performance and the characterization established a landmark onscreen role that did justice to the sometimes debilitating and often misunderstood disease.
By giving portrayals of mentally ill characters that are as accurate as possible, and steering clear of the misconceptions and stereotypes, the entertainment industry can use its influence to help.
