Doctor Who Star Takes on Iconic Role as Disability Rights Pioneer in Apple’s Being Heumann!

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As a passionate movie critic, I am thrilled to share that I feel deeply honored to have been chosen for the opportunity of a lifetime – playing an unforgettable character in Apple TV+’s upcoming movie, Being Heumann. Actress Ruth Madeley, renowned for her exceptional work on Doctor Who, has expressed similar sentiments about this remarkable role.

It’s been officially announced that the BAFTA-nominated actor will portray Judy Heumann, a prominent figure in disability rights activism often referred to as “the Matriarch of the disability rights movement.” In this biographical adaptation of her widely acclaimed memoir, the project will be developed, produced, and helmed by Academy Award winner Siân Heder.

The movie centers on the 28-day protest held at the San Francisco Federal Building, which was spearheaded by over a hundred disabled individuals in 1977, and serves as its primary focus.

In the synopsis for the upcoming production, it’s stated that the demonstrators rapidly create a close-knit group, vowing not to disperse until the government implements section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which mandates that all federal premises become accessible.

In response to being cast in the role, Madeley, an ardent supporter of on-screen disability representation, voiced her joy and satisfaction with the news in a subsequent statement.

She expressed: “It’s truly astonishing to have the opportunity to portray a legendary figure in the disability rights movement, who is not just an icon but a powerful advocate for the disabled community.

For my own personal growth, Judy has consistently served as an inspiring figure. I can’t wait to unveil her captivating tale to the global audience, an opportunity that feels like the culmination of a career.

Madeley gained significant recognition with her role in “Don’t Take My Baby,” where she was nominated for a BAFTA due to her powerful portrayal of a mother with disabilities fighting to keep her child. However, she may be more widely recognized for her subsequent roles, such as Shirley Bingham in “Doctor Who” and her character in “Years and Years.

In the 2018 BBC documentary titled “Spina Bifida & Me,” she explored the effects of this condition on her life, her personal experiences dealing with it, and recent advancements in the related field.

In addition to Heder, who was awarded the Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar for her work on CODA in 2021, making it the first film with a predominantly deaf cast to win Best Picture, the production of Being Heumann will be overseen by David Permut (known for Hacksaw Ridge) and Kevin Walsh (famous for Manchester By The Sea). Additionally, Kevin Cleary and John W. Beach, who manage Heumann, are also involved in the project.

Beyond Madeley, the rest of the cast has not yet been revealed.

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2025-05-31 14:34