In a recent TikTok video, Marissa Bode, who plays Nessarose in the movie “Wicked,” addressed derogatory comments made about her character. Bode, who uses a wheelchair both on and off-screen, expressed discomfort with jokes about Nessa’s disability, emphasizing that disability is not fictional. She highlighted the harmful impact such comments can have and called for awareness and understanding of ableism. Bode shared her own experiences with ableist jokes and encouraged others to listen to disabled voices. She stressed the importance of representation and understanding in the industry.
Bode, who made her feature film debut in “Wicked,” is the first physically disabled actor to portray the role of Nessarose. She emphasized the need for more opportunities for disabled actors in the industry and expressed gratitude for the chance to showcase her talent in a major film. Through her message, Bode hopes to raise awareness about ableism and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for disabled individuals in the entertainment industry and beyond.
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