# Release of Being Heumann biopic > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/release-of-being-heumann-biopic > Updated: 2026-09-09T08:01:16.000Z. Sources: 19. Developments: 2. Apple Original Films announced the biopic ‘Being Heumann’, directed by Siân Heder, which focuses on disability rights activist Judy Heumann and the 1977 occupation of a federal building to enforce Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The film stars Ruth Madeley and Mark Ruffalo. The 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has officially commenced, opening with the premiere of ‘Being Heumann’. The film, directed by Heder (known for ‘CODA’), depicts Heumann’s struggle for civil rights and her leadership during historic protests, including a month-long sit-in at the San Francisco Federal Building. Ruth Madeley portrays Judith Heumann, while Mark Ruffalo appears as a bureaucrat. In addition to its central narrative of the 28-day sit-in that helped pave the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act, the production features a cast of actors with disabilities. Heder noted the importance of casting and the film’s message regarding collective action. The film has secured a deal with Apple TV and is expected to be a significant contender in the upcoming awards season. The TIFF festival continues through September 20, featuring nearly 300 international productions. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-09: Toronto International Film Festival opens with ‘Being Heumann’ The 51st Toronto International Film Festival opened with ‘Being Heumann’, a Siân Heder biopic about disability rights activist Judy Heumann, starring Ruth Madeley. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/toronto-international-film-festival-opens-with-being-heumann ### 2026-09-02: Being Heumann biopic teaser and release date announced Apple Original Films released a teaser for ‘Being Heumann’, a biopic about disability rights activist Judy Heumann, set for a November 2026 release on Apple TV. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/being-heumann-biopic-teaser-and-release-date-announced --- Cite as: Release of Being Heumann biopic. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/release-of-being-heumann-biopic