Home / Arts and Entertainment / Disability Rights Icon Judy Heumann's Story Hits Screen
Disability Rights Icon Judy Heumann's Story Hits Screen
27 Oct
Summary
- Film directed by CODA's Sian Heder honors Judy Heumann.
- Features a large cast of disabled actors, many new to acting.
- Heumann led a 1977 occupation for accessibility and equal rights.
Four years after her Oscar win for CODA, director Sian Heder has released her latest project, 'Being Heumann.' This film chronicles the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, often referred to as the 'Mother of the Disability Rights Movement.' The narrative highlights Heumann's pivotal role in the 1977 occupation of San Francisco's Federal Building, a 28-day protest demanding accessibility laws and equal rights.
Heder, who wrote and directed 'Being Heumann,' leveraged her industry influence to bring this story to life. She aimed for a film with 12 disabled leads and many unknown actors, requiring a dedicated accessibility team. Actress Ruth Madeley portrays Heumann, a role that was particularly challenging for Heder due to her personal relationship with the late activist.
The film, which debuted at TIFF and AFI Fest, has generated Oscar buzz for Heder and its cast. Ruth Madeley expressed gratitude that Heder was telling Heumann's story, emphasizing the importance of authentic representation. 'Being Heumann' is set to premiere in select theaters on November 6, 2026, and will begin streaming on Apple TV on November 13, 2026.
