As Wicked: For Good surges at theaters, fans are falling in love with Nessarose Thropp, Elphaba’s sister and the new governor of Munchkinland. But off-screen, actor Marissa Bode is making waves for a different reason: her memorable and playful coming out story to her family.
In an interview with Them, Bode, the first authentically disabled actor to play Nessarose, opened up about the character, on-set experiences, and her personal journey exploring her queer identity.
Baking Pride Into Family Time
Bode didn’t take the traditional route when coming out. Instead, she turned it into a pun-filled, homemade moment. “I baked these little hand pies that were very dry and not good,” she recalled, laughing. “Then I made a little sign and set it by a plate of said hand pies. It said, ‘Roses are red. Have a hand pie. Happy Pride Month. Surprise, I’m bi.’ Just a little poetry.”
Identifying as queer rather than strictly bi, Bode wanted to explore dating women while being honest with her family first. The result was a heartfelt, humorous, and creative reveal that fit her personality perfectly.
Expanding Nessarose’s Story
Bode also reflected on her role in the Wicked universe. “Nessarose struggles with the lack of control in her life and being thrust into the role of governor,” she explained. “She’s carrying responsibilities while missing her sister, Elphaba, at her side.”
A major change in Wicked: For Good is Nessarose floating rather than walking, a shift that allowed the character to display vulnerability and depth. “It’s more than just, ‘I want to be healed,’” Bode said. “This change lets her story feel more complete and nuanced.”
Being authentically disabled brought unexpected attention. “People are often surprised that I’m disabled in real life,” Bode said. “It shows how little representation there is when audiences assume an able-bodied actor must be playing the role.”
On-Set Moments and Fan Reactions
Despite initial mixed reactions to Nessarose, Bode has embraced the complexity of her character. “It was frustrating that people weren’t allowing nuance for Nessa,” she said. “Disability in media is often presented as purely inspirational. I wanted her to be human, with flaws and dark moments.”
She also shared playful memories from filming: flying on set and admiring fellow actor Ethan’s Tin Man transformation. And the camaraderie of her co-stars helped her navigate high-pressure scenes. “Cynthia told me to breathe and not be so hard on myself,” Bode said.
Looking Ahead
Bode is dreaming big. “I’d love to play a nonchalant, alternative girlie,” she said, citing But I’m a Cheerleader and It as inspirations. With her bold coming out moment and trailblazing performance as Nessarose, Bode is carving out a space both on-screen and off for queer, disabled actors to shine.
