Skip to Main Content
American Masters

Marlee Matlin changed how "CODA" was cast

Marlee Matlin refused to allow a hearing actor to play her Deaf husband in the 2021 film “CODA.”

10/14/2025

American Masters

Marlee Matlin changed how "CODA" was cast

Clip: 10/14/2025 | 2m 8s

Marlee Matlin refused to allow a hearing actor to play her Deaf husband in the 2021 film “CODA.”

Marlee Matlin refused to allow a hearing actor to play her Deaf husband in the Academy Award-winning 2021 film “CODA,” and for the first time in her career, warned that she would exit the film if a Deaf actor wasn’t cast. Troy Kotsur ended up with the role that would eventually win him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

10/14/2025

Problems playing video?   | Closed Captioning Feedback

Report a Problem

Before you submit an error, please consult our Video Help page.

Problems playing video?   | Closed Captioning Feedback

Report a Problem

Before you submit an error, please consult our Video Help page.

Support for American Masters is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, AARP, Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, Judith and Burton Resnick, Blanche and Hayward Cirker Charitable Lead Annuity Trust, Koo...

Support provided by:

AARP

How Henry Winkler helped Marlee Matlin through a turbulent time in her life

Clip: 10/14/2025 | 4m 12s | Henry Winkler took Marlee Matlin in for two years while she recovered from a turbulent time. (4m 12s)

Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore

Video has Closed Captions

Preview: 10/14/2025 | 2m 30s | Learn about Marlee Matlin, Oscar-winning actress and champion of the Deaf community. (2m 30s)

Marlee Matlin on her childhood in Illinois

Clip: 10/14/2025 | 2m | Marlee Matlin visits the house she grew up in Morton Grove, Illinois. (2m)

Providing Support for PBS.org

Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship

Support for PBS provided by:

Support for American Masters is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, AARP, Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, Judith and Burton Resnick, Blanche and Hayward Cirker Charitable Lead Annuity Trust, Koo...

Sign in with Email

or

Continue with GoogleContinue with FacebookContinue with Apple

By creating an account, you acknowledge that PBS may share your information with our member stations and our respective service providers, and that you have read and understand the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Are you sure you want to remove null from My List?