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TLC’s new series, Baylen Out Loud, chronicles the everyday life of Baylen Dupree as she navigates the trials and triumphs of her early 20s while living with Tourette syndrome.
The first episode aired Monday, January 13
Who Is Baylen Dupree?
Starting out as a TikTok influencer, Baylen quickly gained an enormous following as she detailed the struggles she faces living with Tourette syndrome, a neurological disease which causes involuntary movements and sounds.
According to the synopsis of the new TLC show, “Baylen Out Loud will inspire audiences as they watch Baylen push herself outside her comfort zone in pursuit of the independent life she’s always dreamed of.”
“After years of feeling self-conscious about her condition, Baylen is finally ready to live freely, embracing her authentic self and showing the world that Tourette doesn’t define her. With the support of her family and friends, Baylen is ready to stretch her wings,” the synopsis reads.
After being diagnosed in 2020 at the age of 18, the West Virginian took to social media to spread awareness and share her experiences with the condition. Viewers have the chance to see what it’s like for her – and her family – to try to live a fulfilling life despite her condition.
What Is Baylen Dupree’s Condition, Tourette Syndrome?
According to the Mayo Clinic, Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by rapid, repetitive and involuntary muscle movements or sounds, which are referred to as tics. Depicted in the series are the expressions of these tics, which for Baylen, range from blurting out odd phrases, words and sounds to more serious neuromotor events that can potentially cause her harm, like seizures.
“Tourette syndrome causes me to have involuntary motor and vocal tics,” Baylen tells producers during the first episode of the show. Throughout, she can be heard exclaiming bizarre sentences like, “wind it up,” “your mom’s built like a falafel” or “my mom has crabs,” and even once involuntarily declared “I have a gun,” while in line at the airport’s TSA security check.
“Baylen’s realness and humor struck us right away,” President of TLC and Discovery Networks Howard Lee said. “Her fearless honesty about living with Tourette Syndrome not only busts stereotypes but also builds bridges of understanding. At TLC, we stay committed to showcasing stories that resonate deeply with our audience, and Baylen’s journey is the perfect blend of heart and mission.”
Who Are Baylen Dupree’s Family?
In addition to her parents Allen and Julie, Baylen also has “four crazy, loud brothers” and a sister.
“Having a sister with Tourette’s is very crazy,” her sister, Sammi, told the show’s producers. “You don’t know if you’re going to get slapped in the face or get a hug.”
Baylen’s family are depicted extensively throughout the show, as they deal with the ramifications her condition has on their lives, as well. Baylen will often blurt out inappropriate phrases – but that’s on the more mild side. She also suffers from more severe symptoms, like seizures, that worry and stress her family to no end.
In addition to her immediate family members, Baylen is also currently dating a U.S. Air Force Airmen, Colin Dooley, whom she’s been seeing since 2022.
English (US) ·