On April 2, 2025, Paul El Kharrat and his mother, Sophie El Kharrat, appeared on Thomas Isle's media program to discuss their newly released book, Atypiques ! Un dialogue mère-fils pour me comprendre l'Autisme, published by Harper Collins. This heartfelt work delves into the life of Paul, who was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome at the age of 16, and the intricate dynamics of their family relationships.
Paul, a former champion on the popular French game show Les 12 coups de midi, where he achieved a remarkable 152 victories, has had a significant impact on audiences since his debut in 2019. His journey continued to captivate viewers as he faced off against Émilien in the 5000th episode of the show in July 2024, further solidifying his status as a beloved figure in French television.
In their book, the mother-son duo shares personal anecdotes and insights about living with autism. Sophie reflects on the challenges of understanding and supporting her son, while Paul provides his perspective on their shared experiences. Sophie writes candidly about the struggles she faced in raising Paul, particularly in fostering connections with his younger siblings, Louise and Samih.
“Since the diagnosis was established, Paul’s autism has been a nearly constant topic of conversation,” Sophie explains in the book. She emphasizes that while the diagnosis helped clarify some aspects of Paul’s behavior, it did not resolve all the complexities of their daily lives. The reality of living with an autistic sibling can be difficult, as she notes the emotional toll on her other children, who often felt neglected or misunderstood.
One particularly striking memory Sophie recounts involves Paul’s reaction to the birth of his younger brother, Samih. “After our return home, while I had left Samih momentarily on the bed and Paul was playing nearby, he grabbed a pillow and pressed it over Samih’s face,” she recalls, horrified by the incident. This moment underscores the challenges of navigating sibling relationships in the context of autism.
As Paul reflects on his interactions with his siblings, he admits to feeling somewhat disconnected. “Today, I don’t feel very close to my brother and sister; it’s like we’re each in our own bubble,” he shares. He reveals that the only time he truly understood their feelings towards him was when they opened up in a documentary dedicated to his life, expressing how they often felt helpless in the face of his mental condition.
Despite these challenges, Paul has developed his own unique ways of expressing affection. He describes his displays of love as “animalistic,” saying, “I tap my family on the head like I would a small dog or cat.” He acknowledges that while he has learned to give kisses and show affection, these gestures are reserved for his closest family members. “With others, there’s no effusion!” he adds, highlighting the stark contrast between his interactions with family and acquaintances.
In the chapter titled “The Big Brother,” Sophie elaborates on the emotional landscape of their family, detailing how Paul’s autism has shaped their lives. The book serves not only as a memoir but also as a guide for families navigating similar challenges, providing insights into the daily realities of autism.
Paul’s story is one of resilience and growth, as he continues to inspire others with his journey. His candidness about his experiences with autism and the complexities of family life resonates with many, making Atypiques ! a significant contribution to the conversation about autism and its impact on families.
As the release of their book coincides with their media appearances, Paul and Sophie aim to raise awareness and foster understanding about autism, highlighting the importance of compassion and communication within families. Their story is a testament to the love and perseverance that can exist even in the face of challenges.
With Atypiques !, Paul and Sophie El Kharrat invite readers into their world, encouraging them to embrace the differences that make each family unique. They hope their journey will inspire others to share their own stories and foster connections that transcend misunderstandings.
