For too long the depiction of characters audiences have seen in Hollywood movies often doesn’t depict reality. Hollywood had a tendency to overlook inclusion, especially of those with disabilities. As audiences change and the world becomes more open-minded, non-profits like the Ruderman Foundation and celebrities alike have been advocating for change. Actor Matthew Sauvé shares his enthusiasm for their work about inclusion and is inspired to continue to work towards change.
After his recent attendance at an event in Beverly Hills honoring the Farrelly brothers with the Morton E. Ruderman Award for Inclusion of People with Disabilities, Matthew is excited to see disability inclusion become the norm rather than the exception. “The Farrelly brothers are trailblazers for disability inclusion in Hollywood, and the award was well deserved,” explains Matthew. “They’ve been outspoken for years that the industry needs to be more inclusive in all sectors, and their hard work has truly paved the way for change.” Hollywood’s reach is powerful. Matthew understands how important it is to embrace that power to change global perceptions regarding people with disabilities.
The high-profile event took place on March 3rd 2020 at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Beverly Hills. It was attended by notable celebrities, all supportive of the cause. Research done by the foundation found that over 95% of characters with disabilities are portrayed by actors without disabilities. Matthew believes that the Farrelly brothers alongside the Ruderman Foundation are setting an excellent example to help promote authenticity, understanding, and leadership by casting actors with disabilities in their films.
Matthew believes a commitment to inclusivity is paramount, “Peter Farrelly said it best during his acceptance speech that audition breakdowns don’t say…woman enters the room (not in wheelchair), auditions need to lose the stigma and be inclusive period,” says Matthew.
Matthew Sauvé received critical acclaim following his riveting performance in One Night Stand, which earned him over 40 best actor awards throughout the world. With two upcoming projects slated for 2021, namely Forgotten Corpses: The Confinement and Endgame, Matthew will continue to use his star-power for good. “It was a privilege to support such a notable cause, and I’m thrilled to see the Ruderman Foundation increase global support on the issue of inclusion,” says Matthew.
Matthew and several other Hollywood actors continue to support inclusion and drive a positive change in Hollywood and beyond. We can look forward to the stronger inclusion of disabled actors giving them fair and equal representation where it matters most.