Marissa Bode, the trailblazing actress who plays Nessarose in the movie adaptation of Wicked, has spoken out against the Met Gala for its ongoing failure to include people with disabilities.
As the first wheelchair user to take on the role of Elphaba’s sister, Bode is using her platform not just to highlight representation, but also to push for meaningful changes in the fashion and entertainment industries.
Her message underscores that, even after years of advocacy, people with disabilities are still largely left out of major events like the Met Gala and aren’t regularly featured in media and fashion.
Marissa Bode’s Take on Disability Inclusivity at the Met Gala
On social media, especially on TikTok, Marissa Bode expressed her disappointment over the lack of disabled attendees at the Met Gala, an event that’s closely watched for its fashion and celebrities. She made it clear that accessibility should be more than just aesthetics—like making stairs look good—and should be a core part of planning any event.
Bode called on organizers to bring in multiple disabled guests rather than just a token presence, stressing that people with disabilities often exist together in everyday life and should have consistent representation, not just occasional appearances or special diversity features.
@marissa_edob Aariana Phillip , @Jillian Mercado, @Lauren “Lolo” Spencer to name a veeeerrrry FEW are more than qualified to be in attendance. Disabled people of all sorts should be invited. Invite more than one of us! We’re more than just something to be scratched off a diversity checklist. We belong in fashion! #metgala #disabledfashion ♬ original sound – Marissa
She emphasized that disabled individuals aren’t looking for saviors; they want their voices to be heard, respected, and involved in all cultural and societal aspects. Bode also urged those without disabilities and industry insiders to step up and “do the work” to create environments that are accessible and welcoming. This includes questioning why events like the Met Gala and the entertainment industry at large have so little disabled representation, and using their influence to drive real change.
The Significance of Representation and Accessibility in Entertainment
Bode’s own experience on the Wicked set shows how inclusivity can flourish with genuine commitment. The production team, headed by director Jon M. Chu, made a concerted effort to create an accessible atmosphere, complete with a disability coordinator who anticipated and addressed potential obstacles before filming started.
This support allowed Bode to concentrate on her performance without the usual accessibility hurdles, proving that with thoughtful planning and awareness, disabled artists can excel in mainstream productions.
However, Bode pointed out that representation isn’t enough on its own. Beyond being visible, there needs to be a collective effort to make spaces accessible and educate both disabled and non-disabled individuals about disability from a young age. This comprehensive approach is crucial for breaking down ableism and encouraging genuine inclusivity in society.
What the Met Gala and Fashion Industry Could Learn
The Met Gala, often viewed as a pinnacle of fashion and cultural impact, has the potential to set a standard for disability inclusivity. Bode’s call to action reminds us that inclusivity isn’t just about checking diversity boxes; it requires a fundamental rethink of how events and industries function to make sure everyone feels they belong.
This entails proactive outreach, accessible venues, and a dedication to including multiple disabled voices regularly—not just occasionally.
