Sian Heder, 'CODA' Director, Returns to Apple TV with Disability Rights Biopic 'Being Heumann'
The Oscar-winning director's next film stars Ruth Madeley as the activist behind the landmark 1977 504 Sit-in protests.
“She was so forceful and hilarious and blunt and empathetic and all of these contradictions,”
- Director
- Sian Heder
- Starring
- Ruth Madeley, Mark Ruffalo, Dylan O'Brien
- Release
- 2026
- Genre
- Drama
- Where to Watch
- Apple TV+ / Theaters
Sian Heder is returning to Apple TV to direct a new film about disability rights activist Judy Heumann, according to a report from AppleInsider. Heder previously directed and co-wrote the Oscar-winning film "CODA" for the streaming service.
The new project, titled "Being Heumann," will star British actress Ruth Madeley as Judy Heumann. The film is based on Heumann's memoir and will dramatize the 1977 sit-in she led, where over a hundred disabled people occupied a federal building in San Francisco for 28 days.
Who is starring in the film?
Ruth Madeley, known for roles in "Doctor Who" and "Years and Years," will play the lead role of Judy Heumann. The supporting cast includes Mark Ruffalo as Joseph Califano and Dylan O'Brien as Evan White.
Heder was drawn to Heumann's story after seeing a documentary about her. "She was so forceful and hilarious and blunt and empathetic and all of these contradictions," Heder said. "And I thought, 'I do need to tell this story, and I'd love to meet this woman.'"
"I was completely in awe. I was so desperate for her to like me," Madeley said. "Her grit, her joy, and her complexities all make her so much fun to play."
When will the film be released?
"Being Heumann" is scheduled to open the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival in September.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Being Heumann' about?
The film is a biopic focusing on disability rights activist Judy Heumann and her leadership of the 1977 504 Sit-in protests in San Francisco, which lasted for 28 days and were pivotal for disability rights legislation.
Who is Judy Heumann?
Judy Heumann was a disability rights activist. She became a leading figure in the fight for the implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
What other films has Sian Heder directed?
Sian Heder is best known for directing and co-writing the film 'CODA,' which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. That film was also produced for and released on Apple TV+.
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