Anne Hegerty: How Her Late Autism Diagnosis Transformed Her Life

Navigating Life on the Autism Spectrum

Anne Hegerty, often referred to as the formidable Governess from *The Chase*, has had a remarkable journey. Long before her fame, she was a woman trying to understand an unusual mind that many around her could not comprehend. As *The Chase New Zealand* prepares to launch, she opens up about her life experiences, including her late diagnosis on the autism spectrum.

Realizations from a Young Age

Hegerty reflects that her life could have been significantly less complex had she been diagnosed as autistic in her youth. In the 1960s, autism diagnoses were rare among children who did not exhibit clear developmental delays. The absence of this knowledge made her formative years particularly challenging. Navigating adolescent social scenes felt daunting, and adulthood brought its own struggles, such as managing bills and job responsibilities.

At 47, after years of self-reflection, Hegerty sought a formal diagnosis. “I had diagnosed myself at 45,” she notes during a video call from Sydney, emphasizing her desire for validation.

Understanding Autism Through Media

Her journey to self-discovery was catalyzed by a television program on autism. Upon watching it, she found herself connecting deeply with the behaviors discussed. “Many things just clicked,” she explains, recalling how various traits resonated with her personal experiences.

The Challenges of Recognizing Faces

A particularly challenging aspect of her autism is a condition known as prosopagnosia, which hinders her ability to recognize faces. Hegerty describes it: “It’s not simply mixing names with faces; I can meet someone and, upon their return to the room, I may not recognize them at all.” This unique challenge is just one layer of her complex journey.

Obsessions and Career Alignment

Interestingly, her intense focus on singular topics has served her well in her career. “When I’m fascinated, I can’t think of anything else,” she shares. This trait has helped her excel on the quiz show, where deep knowledge of subjects is essential.

Embracing Her Role as Governess

Despite the hurdles, Hegerty’s life took a thrilling turn when she stepped into the role of The Governess. “I truly enjoy being The Governess,” she expresses. This character allows her to channel her unique traits in an enjoyable way, bridging her personal experiences and professional life.

Connecting with Fans

Engaging with fans has its challenges, requiring her to set boundaries. However, she appreciates the balance it provides. “I’ve got the right amount of connection,” she says, “I can maintain my solitude while also enjoying social interactions.”

A Love for History and Literature

Hegerty finds solace in her interests, particularly in royal history and literature. “I delve into popular culture, especially aspects that align with my knowledge and passion,” she notes, showcasing the depth of her preferences.

Today’s Routine and Life Management

Maintaining a healthy balance in her life is key for Hegerty. “It can be a struggle just to get up and dressed due to executive dysfunction,” she admits. Yet, once she’s on set and engaged with the show, her abilities shine.

The premiere of *The Chase New Zealand* is set for November 3, and audiences can expect a unique performance from Anne Hegerty, whose life story adds layers to her character as the Governess. Are you excited to see her in action?