Marissa Bode has rapidly emerged as a powerful voice and talent in the entertainment industry, particularly noted for her groundbreaking role as Nessarose Thropp in the highly anticipated Wicked film adaptations. More than just an actress, Bode is a fierce advocate for authentic disability representation, using her platform to challenge stereotypes and champion inclusivity in Hollywood. 

Her journey from local Wisconsin productions to the global stage is not only a testament to her acting prowess but also to her unwavering determination and commitment to making the industry more accessible and equitable.

Born in Mazomanie, Wisconsin, Marissa Bode’s passion for acting ignited at a young age, with her first role as an orphan in a local production of The Prince and the Pauper at age eight. At 11, a car accident left her paralyzed, requiring her to use a wheelchair for mobility. 

However, this life-altering event did not deter her theatrical aspirations. She continued to hone her craft, performing in various local plays and musicals such as Little Shop of Horrors, Peter Pan, and Mary Poppins. 

Her dedication led her to the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles, where she graduated, further solidifying her foundation in the performing arts.

The Groundbreaking Role of Nessarose

Marissa Bode’s casting as Nessarose Thropp in Jon M. Chu’s Wicked films (2024 and 2025) marked a significant milestone for disability representation in mainstream cinema. Historically, the character of Nessarose, Elphaba’s younger sister who uses a wheelchair, has been portrayed by non-disabled actresses in stage productions. Bode’s casting is the first time a real-life wheelchair user has taken on the role, bringing an unprecedented level of authenticity and lived experience to the character.

This authentic casting has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning her nominations for ensemble awards at prestigious ceremonies like the 30th Critics’ Choice Awards and the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards. 

Bode herself has expressed immense excitement about this opportunity, stating in an interview with BroadwayWorld.com, “To be that representation for not only disabled people but disabled people of color is so exciting and so surreal.” Her presence on such a high-profile project not only amplifies visibility for disabled actors but also signals a positive shift towards more inclusive casting practices in Hollywood.

Advocacy and Impact: Paving the Way for Others

Beyond her on-screen performance, Marissa Bode is a vocal advocate for disability rights and accessibility. She actively speaks out about the importance of authentic representation and challenges the common misconception that disabled individuals aspire to be “fixed.” In an April 2025 interview with Digital Spy, Bode discussed changes made to the Wicked sequel, Wicked: For Good, regarding Nessarose’s storyline, noting that alterations were made to ensure the narrative is “less harmful to disabled people.” 

She emphasized that many non-disabled people incorrectly assume that all disabled individuals wish to be “fixed,” and portraying such a narrative in a widely viewed film could have negative repercussions. This demonstrates her proactive approach to ensuring portrayals on screen are not only accurate but also considerate of the real-life experiences of the disabled community.

Bode’s advocacy extends to practical aspects of accessibility within the industry. She has praised the Wicked set for being designed with wheelchair users in mind, highlighting the necessity of creating accessible environments not just behind the scenes, but also within the fictional worlds depicted on screen. 

Her work extends beyond acting; in 2021, she wrote, directed, and produced her short film You’re Adorable, which was accepted into the Wisconsin Film Festival. Notably, the film featured her character using a wheelchair, but her disability was not central to the plot, a deliberate choice by Bode to showcase disability as a natural part of a character’s identity rather than a defining characteristic or plot device.

Recent Trends in Disability Representation (2025)

As of mid-2025, the landscape of disability representation in Hollywood is showing promising, albeit slow, progress. The casting of Marissa Bode in Wicked is a prime example of a recent trend towards more authentic casting, where roles for disabled characters are increasingly being filled by disabled actors. This contrasts with historical practices where non-disabled actors often portrayed characters with disabilities, sometimes even winning awards for such performances.

Increased Demand for Authenticity: There’s a growing call from disability advocates and audiences for authentic casting. A 2024 report by the Ruderman Family Foundation found that while there’s still a significant gap, the percentage of characters with disabilities played by actors with disabilities has slowly risen.

More Disabled Creatives Behind the Camera: Organizations like the Inevitable Foundation, which recently announced that Marissa Bode and Julia Lester will star in short films by disabled filmmakers for their Visionary Fellowship, are actively supporting disabled writers, directors, and producers. This fosters storytelling from genuinely lived experiences, ensuring narratives are nuanced and realistic.

Focus on Intersectionality: The industry is slowly beginning to acknowledge the intersectionality of identities, as highlighted by Bode’s statement about representing “disabled people of color.” This allows for more diverse and multifaceted portrayals of disability.

Technological Advancements in Accessibility: Beyond set design, advancements in accessible technology are also playing a role, from virtual production environments that can be more easily adapted to assistive technologies used in post-production.

Despite these positive trends, challenges remain, including a persistent lack of opportunities, stereotypical portrayals, and insufficient accessibility in production environments. However, the momentum generated by figures like Marissa Bode indicates a strong push for further change.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Disabled Actors

For aspiring disabled actors looking to follow in Marissa Bode’s footsteps, here are some practical tips:

Hone Your Craft: Train extensively. Attend acting schools, workshops, and classes. A strong foundation in acting is crucial regardless of disability.

Embrace Your Identity: Your disability is a part of who you are and can bring unique perspectives to your performances. Don’t let it be seen as a barrier; rather, leverage it as a strength that can inform your characters.

Create Your Own Work: Like Bode’s You’re Adorable, writing and producing your own short films or theatrical pieces is an excellent way to showcase your talent and control your narrative. This also provides valuable experience in filmmaking.

Network Strategically: Connect with other disabled artists, filmmakers, and industry professionals. Organizations dedicated to disability inclusion in entertainment can be invaluable resources.

Advocate for Yourself and Others: Be prepared to educate and advocate for accessibility and authentic representation. Your voice can make a difference in shaping the industry.

Seek Out Inclusive Opportunities: Look for casting calls and projects specifically seeking disabled actors or those with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Build a Strong Online Presence: Use social media and professional platforms to showcase your work, connect with the community, and raise awareness for your advocacy.

Real-Life Examples of Bode’s Impact

Marissa Bode’s impact is already tangible. For instance, the release of the Nessarose doll by Mattel as part of the Wicked merchandise line, which features the doll in a wheelchair, is a direct result of Bode’s groundbreaking role and her advocacy. This small yet significant detail contributes to normalizing disability in toys, influencing a new generation’s perception of disabled individuals. Furthermore, her discussions about the adaptive changes to Nessarose’s narrative in Wicked: For Good demonstrate her ability to influence storylines to better serve the disabled community, a level of influence rarely seen from actors, especially those early in their feature film careers.

Her participation in initiatives like the Inevitable Foundation’s Visionary Fellowship highlights a proactive effort to build a pipeline for disabled talent, ensuring that the next generation of storytellers and performers can thrive.

FAQ

Who is Marissa Bode?

Marissa Bode is an American actress known for her groundbreaking portrayal of Nessarose Thropp in the Wicked film adaptations. She is also a prominent advocate for authentic disability representation in Hollywood.

What makes Marissa Bode’s role in Wicked significant?

Marissa Bode is the first real-life wheelchair user to play the character of Nessarose Thropp, who also uses a wheelchair, in a major motion picture. This marks a significant step forward for authentic disability representation in mainstream cinema.

Has Marissa Bode been nominated for any awards for her role in Wicked?

Yes, Marissa Bode has received nominations for ensemble cast awards, including at the 30th Critics’ Choice Awards and the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards, for her performance in Wicked.

What is Marissa Bode’s stance on disability representation in Hollywood?

Marissa Bode is a strong advocate for authentic disability representation. She emphasizes the importance of disabled actors playing disabled characters and challenges stereotypical portrayals, advocating for narratives that are less harmful and more nuanced.

What are Marissa Bode’s upcoming projects in 2025?

In 2025, Marissa Bode is set to appear in Wicked: For Good, the second part of the Wicked film adaptation. Additionally, she will star in Katherine Craft’s short film “The Hog Queen” as part of the Inevitable Foundation’s Visionary Fellowship, showcasing her continued commitment to projects that promote disabled filmmakers.

Final Thoughts

Marissa Bode is more than just a talented actress; she is a trailblazer who is actively shaping the future of Hollywood. Her powerful portrayal of Nessarose in the Wicked films, combined with her unwavering commitment to authentic disability representation, is inspiring countless individuals and driving meaningful change within the entertainment industry. As of 2025, her work stands as a beacon for what is possible when talent meets purpose, proving that true inclusivity enriches storytelling for everyone. Her journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, advocacy, and the transformative power of being genuinely seen.

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