Disabled Actor Cast as Elephant Man in New Film

Adam Pearson, a British actor with neurofibromatosis, has been cast as Joseph Merrick in a new film adaptation of Bernard Pomerance's Tony-winning play 'The Elephant Man.' For the first time, a disabled actor will portray Merrick, a role historically played by able-bodied actors such as Bradley Cooper, David Bowie, and Mark Hamill. The screenplay will be written by Moby Pomerance, the late playwright's son, and production is scheduled to begin in spring 2026. Pearson called the role an honor and a responsibility, citing his advocacy for disability representation and personal connection to Merrick’s story. Eve Pomerance, daughter of the playwright, noted her father was opposed to prosthetic use in the role, aiming for audiences to empathize with Merrick as a real person. Unlike the 1980 David Lynch film, this adaptation is a direct translation of the acclaimed stage play and seeks greater authenticity and empathy.