As Marissa Bode settles into her seat at Midtown’s Jams, the end of a whirlwind press tour for “Wicked: For Good” looms ahead. From London to New York, she bids farewell to her time in Oz, feeling a wave of sentimentality wash over her. Professionally, Bode, a 25-year-old actor, has been immersed in the world of “Wicked” since her move to Los Angeles after attending a performing arts school. Her journey began with her first feature film role as Nessarose Thropp, a character she had longed to see herself represented on stage as a wheelchair user.
Reflecting on the audition process with a mix of fondness and mild embarrassment, Bode recounts the moment when director Jon M. Chu surprised her with the role after seeing a heartfelt video she posted on social media. The film adaptation of “Wicked” takes a fresh approach to Nessarose’s character, highlighting her dreams beyond her disability and showcasing her as a multifaceted individual.
Despite the challenges that come with portraying Nessarose, Bode’s casting as the first disabled actor in the role marks a significant moment in representation. Her hope is that this milestone will pave the way for more opportunities for disabled actors in the industry. While Bode’s advocacy extends to platforms like TikTok, she is equally vocal about advocating for accessibility and inclusivity in the entertainment world.
As she looks to the future, Bode envisions a diverse range of roles beyond disability-specific characters. She hopes to explore comedy, queer cinema, and even delve into directing her own stories. With a blend of determination and optimism, she sees each project as an opportunity to bring unique perspectives to the screen.
As the evening draws to a close, Bode wraps up in a fuzzy pink hoodie, preparing to head back to her hotel for one last fitting. The next day, she will return to Los Angeles, where loved ones await a “Wicked: For Good” viewing party. With a sense of fulfillment and nostalgia, Bode hopes that viewers will find a piece of themselves in the cinematic world of “Wicked,” much like she did over a decade ago.
Observing Marissa Bode’s journey through the lens of “Wicked: For Good,” one can’t help but feel the impact of her trailblazing role as the first disabled actor to embody Nessarose. In a world where representation matters more than ever, Bode’s presence on screen serves as a beacon of progress and possibility.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.