‘Eternals’ Lauren Ridloff Talks the Importance of a Deaf Superhero
With the Eternals‘ recent release on Disney+, the film has returned to the forefront of every MCU fan’s mind. Its immense and vital message is being reiterated once again as Eternals star Lauren Ridloff talks the importance of a deaf superhero.
Marvel’s landmark project, Eternals, has been discussed at length for its divisive status in MCU fandom, as well as its mixed reviews. But neither discourse can change how important the film is as a cultural exposition, because the film brings new diversity to big budget superhero projects.
Photo: Marvel
Breaking down barriers for representation in comic book adaptations, Eternals never shied aware from portraying the vastness of human life through its large ensemble cast for the ambitious Marvel project.
With actors like Salma Hayek and Angelina Jolie combating the age-old ageism of Hollywood against older female actors, to Bryan Tyree Henry portraying a Black, gay character on the screen, Marvel has embraced progress and representation in their casting choices.
Photo: Marvel Studios
One of the best examples of this is none other than Makkari herself, played by deaf actress Lauren Ridloff, in her MCU debut. The former Walking Dead star embraces her place as Marvel’s first deaf superhero, and never loses sight of the character’s impact on the young deaf community.
Lauren Ridloff as Makkari. Photo: Marvel
With her incredible impact being noted, Eternals star Lauren Ridloff talks the importance of a deaf superhero in the recently released “Walks of Life” featurette that takes fans behind the scenes of the newest Marvel epic.
In the featurette, Ridloff states, “Honestly, I’m just excited to think about having deaf kids wearing Halloween costumes that are going to be Makkari-inspired.”
Source: Marvel Studios
“I think that’s the most important thing about having a deaf superhero on the big screen,” the actress continued, “It shows that there’s so much more to every individual regardless of their ability.”
The actress concluded by noting the impact Marvel has had on her life and how thankful she is for the opportunity, stating, “Stan Lee and Marvel. That whole world has been such a big part of my life growing up. And with my family also. And now, I’m playing a speedster in this movie. It’s incredible!”
Source: Marvel Studios
For Ridloff, Makkari is an opportunity to give young deaf viewers the representation they so deserve. Her love for the character and gratefulness only adds to how much we adore her, which is only compounded by how well she portrayed the fantastic Marvel speedster.
