‘CODA’ Director Sian Heder’s ‘Being Heumann’ Lands Ruth Madeley as Lead

As an enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that I, as a fan, will be embodying the role of disability rights activist Judy Heumann in the Apple movie “Being Heumann.” This film is directed by the talented Sian Heder, who brought us the critically acclaimed “CODA.” I can’t wait to bring this inspiring story to life!

An actress up for a BAFTA award will portray Heumann, spearheading over a hundred disabled individuals in occupying the San Francisco Federal Building, initiating a 28-day demonstration. This protest paved the way for the implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, mandating that all federal buildings must be made accessible. Heumann, often referred to as the “matriarch of the disability rights movement,” played a significant role in shaping the Americans with Disabilities Act. She passed away in 2023 at the age of 75.

As a dedicated admirer, I can’t help but share that this captivating movie is an adaption from Marca Heumann’s renowned autobiography, bearing the same title. The talented duo of Heder and Rebekah Taussig were the ones who beautifully molded it for the silver screen.

Under her overall agreement with Apple, Heder, together with David Permut and Kevin Walsh from The Walsh Company (through their own overall deal with the studio), will also create content. John W. Beach and Kevin Cleary of Gravity Squared Entertainment, who manage Heder, will additionally serve as producers. In the executive producer roles, there is a posthumous credit for Heumann, co-author Kristen Joiner of Being Heumann , and Diana Pokorny.

It’s simply incredible to have the opportunity to portray a legendary figure in disability rights, a beacon and powerhouse for the disabled community. Judy has always been a personal inspiration for me, and I can’t wait to bring her remarkable story to light,” expressed Madeley, who was born with spina bifida. Her notable works encompass the U.K. series “Dr. Who” and “Years and Years”.

Madeley is repped by Curtis Brown and Tapestry London.

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2025-05-29 21:55