Marissa Bode makes history in ‘Wicked’ as the first actress in a wheelchair to play Nessarose

The highly anticipated film Wicked, an adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical, not only recreates the magic of the stage on screen, but also innovates by expanding representation in its cast.

Marissa Bodein her film debut, plays Nessarose, Elphaba’s younger sister, played by Cynthia Erivo.

Goat She is the first authentically wheelchair-bound actress to take on the role, marking a historic moment for the inclusion of people with disabilities in large-scale productions.

Representativeness and authenticity

Marissawho began using a wheelchair at age 11 after an accident, brought her experience to give depth to the character. The actress highlights the importance of having artists with disabilities representing characters who share their experiences.

I love seeing characters with disabilities being played by people who live these realities. No one understands us better than ourselves,” he said in an interview with Los Angeles The Times.

The director Jon M. Chu revealed that the selection process for the role was long and careful, aiming to find an actress who embodied all of Nessarose’s nuances.

Goat stood out not only for his performance, but also for his ability to enrich the character, collaborating with the creative team to adjust details, such as the design of the wheelchair, to make it functional and representative.

Innovation and inclusion behind the scenes

Nessarose’s wheelchair, designed with Art Nouveau influences, reflects the character’s self-sufficiency. This attention to detail extended to other aspects of the production, such as Victorian costumes that exalt the character’s innocence and elegance.

Additionally, the inclusion of a dance sequence between Nessarose and Boq, played by Ethan Slaterhighlights the capabilities of artists with disabilities. Created in partnership with the wheelchair choreographer Hannah Raynorthe scene celebrates the expressive and artistic potential of people with disabilities.

Cultural impact and inclusive future

By giving space to a biracial, queer, wheelchair-using actress, ‘Wicked’ signals a significant shift for the film industry. Marissa Bode hopes its debut inspires more opportunities for artists with disabilities.

It’s important to show that we are here, that we can act, sing and dance. We are as capable as any other artist”, he highlighted.

With this inclusive approach, ‘Wicked’ not only honors the musical’s legacy, but also sets a new standard for representation in Hollywood, encouraging other productions to adopt more accessible and inclusive practices.