Mark Ruffalo joins Being Heumann cast for Apple, stepping into the role of Joseph Califano alongside Ruth Madeley in the lead as disability rights activist Judith Heumann. The film, an Apple Original, is adapted, directed, and produced by Academy Award-winner Siân Heder, with the announcement made by Apple Studios on Tuesday.
Storyline and Cast Details for Being Heumann
Ruffalo, who is widely recognized for his work in productions such as Poor Things, the Avengers series, and Spotlight, joins a cast led by BAFTA nominee Ruth Madeley, set to portray Judy Heumann. Being Heumann tells the true story of Judy Heumann’s efforts as she guided more than a hundred disabled people in taking over the San Francisco Federal Building, beginning a 28-day sit-in. The group’s aim was to press the government to enforce section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, mandating accessibility in all federal facilities.
Creative Team and Production Partnerships
Having previously won an Oscar for CODA, Siân Heder directs and produces Being Heumann as part of her partnership with Apple Studios. Rebekah Taussig serves as the co-writer for the script. The film is being produced by David Permut, whose previous projects include Hacksaw Ridge and Face/Off, for Permut Presentations, and Kevin Walsh for The Walsh Company. Walsh collaborates through his overall deal with Apple. The producing team also includes Heumann’s managers, John W. Beach and Kevin Cleary, from Gravity Squared Entertainment.
Executive Producers and Ongoing Collaborations
Serving as executive producers are Judy Heumann herself, Kristen Joiner—the co-author of the Being Heumann memoir—Diana Pokorny, and Jim Lebrecht. Heder’s prior collaboration with Apple Studios includes her acclaimed work on CODA, the first film with a predominantly deaf cast to win Best Picture. Additionally, Troy Kotsur, who starred in CODA, became the first Deaf male actor to receive an Oscar. Heder also executive produced Little America, a series recognized by NAACP and Independent Spirit Awards for its critical impact.
Representation and Industry Connections
Mark Ruffalo is represented by Lighthouse Management and Media, UTA, Relevant, and Keith Klevan. His involvement continues Apple’s tradition of engaging notable talent and creative leadership as it brings important stories like that of Judith Heumann and the disability rights movement to worldwide audiences.
This film is expected to raise awareness about the landmark protest at the San Francisco Federal Building and highlight the significance of enforcing accessibility, drawing renewed focus to civil rights for people with disabilities.
