How do you feel about able-bodied actors portraying disabled characters?

 


IRONSIDE

        Wow I'm not sure how I feel about the situation of able-bodied actors portraying disabled characters on TV and in the theaters. How do you feel? First thing that comes to mind is, there are so many disabled actors just looking for a break to become a household name it seems unfair that they take someone who is able-bodied, put them in a chair, and tell him or her to play the role. But the second thing that comes to mind, it is drawing attention to the disabled community and that would be a good thing. I really like Blair Underwood and think he is an awesome actor, and feel he will play the role as Ironside on TV in the most professional and realistic way as he can do. My question is, or was, did they have an open casting call for disabled individuals, as well as, seasoned actors to try out for this part? I can understand a TV network going with the seasoned actor as they are betting their money on a new series, but if it has a good plot and great topics, the show should be a hit on it's own. I just feel if they want reality, which most of the shows are looking for, why not take a chance on  a disabled actor, work with them and make them into a maga star!!!! I do look forward to watching Ironside as I was an old Raymond Burr fan and enjoyed the show. I hope the show is as good and hope that Blair Underwood doesn't get too much flack about not being disabled. But if any potential show writers should happen to possibly read this blog try to cast true disabled actors if you want reality and true disabled characters!!