Actually, to be more or less serious for a second, I don't think whoever likened Karimloo's performance of Erik to a person with autism meant it in a mean-spirited way. If I'm not mistaken (haven't really immersed myself in the "phandom" for quite some time) there have been a few discussions among serious fans about whether the Phantom (in any incarnation) might actually have some form of autism. It's not an entirely laughable idea when you consider his social ineptitude, his romantic awkwardness, his incredible artistic gift...when I first read the comment, it simply struck me as an observation that Karimloo's performance just brought those aspects of the character out a little more. That's all.
"If there is going to be a restoration fee, there should also be a Renaissance fee, a Middle Ages fee and a Dark Ages fee. Someone must have men in the back room making up names, euphemisms for profit."
(Emanuel Azenberg)