20th Anniversary Collection: Judy Sharp and the remarkable rise of Laser Beak Man

When Judy Sharp was told by doctors that her son would never communicate or learn to love, she refused to believe it and set about to secure a brilliant life for her neurodivergent son, Tim.

Judy's eldest son, Tim, was diagnosed with autism when he was 3 years old.

When Judy was told Tim would never communicate or be able to love she refused to accept those limitations.

As a mother, Judy took many risks to secure a good life for both of her sons, including escaping an abusive marriage.

Her risks paid off.

As a grown man, Tim became a renowned artist and his popularity continues to grow.

Laser Beak Man, Tim's cheeky cartoon super-hero, has taken Tim and Judy as far as Broadway, where he was the central figure of a musical.

Further information

First broadcast in February, 2016.

2025 update: Tim and his artwork have been included in the book celebrating 50 years of the Sydney Opera House, about 50 famous Australian artists.

Judy is now a sought-after speaker and spends much of her time speaking at conferences. 

A film based on Judy's memoir is in development, hopefully starting production in 2026. 

You can read all about the Conversations origin story on the ABC News website.

This episode of Conversations explores parenting children with autism, ADHD, neurodivergence, communication, Asperger's, mothers of sons, spousal abuse, brothers, ASD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Austin.