Mark Ruffalo to Star in Apple Original Film 'Being Heumann' Directed by Sian Heder
Mark Ruffalo has been cast in the upcoming Apple Original Films project, Being Heumann, directed by Sian Heder. The film is an adaptation of disability rights activist Judy Heumann's memoir of the same name. Ruffalo will play Joseph Califano alongside Ruth Madeley, who will portray Judy Heumann. The story follows Heumann leading a sit-in at the San Francisco Federal Building in 1977 to demand accessibility for all federal spaces under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Sian Heder, known for her work on the award-winning film CODA, is directing the project and producing it through her deal with Apple Studios. The script, co-written by Heder and Rebekah Taussig, is based on Heumann's memoir published in 2020. The film's producers include David Permut and Kevin Walsh, with Heumann's managers John W. Beach and Kevin Cleary also involved. Heumann, who passed away in 2023, is credited as an executive producer, along with Kristen Joiner, Diana Pokorny, and Jim Lebrecht.
Heder's successful collaboration with Apple includes the critically acclaimed film CODA, which won multiple Oscars. Ruffalo, a four-time Oscar nominee, has recently been seen in films like Poor Things and Mickey 17. He will also star in the upcoming movie Crime 101 alongside Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry. Ruffalo is represented by Lighthouse Entertainment, UTA, Relevant, and Keith Klevan.
In conclusion, Mark Ruffalo's involvement in Being Heumann adds star power to the project, which promises to shed light on an important chapter in disability rights activism. The film's cast and crew, including director Sian Heder and producer David Permut, are set to bring Heumann's inspiring story to the screen with authenticity and impact.