Disney Welcomes Its First Major Character With Down Syndrome In ‘Peter Pan’ Film
Image via Disney
Yo ho, yo ho, Disney’s striking gold in inclusivity with Peter Pan & Wendy, its upcoming live-action adaptation of the classic. Noah Matthews Matofsky, a 15-year-old actor and model with Down syndrome, plays the leader of the Lost Boys, named Slightly.
Matofsky’s casting makes him the first actor with the genetic condition to be enlisted for a lead role in a Disney feature film. The teen underwent an arduous audition process, going head to head with thousands other young actors, and was finally hired to helm the role of captain of the Lost Boys in the Jude Law-starring movie.
The actor from West Sussex, Southern England, told the Sun that being a part of the filming process was an “amazing experience,” and that he was most delighted about his sword-fighting lessons and that he got his own trailer.
Video screenshot via Walt Disney Studios
One of his highlights from the six months of filming in Vancouver was when Law, who plays Captain Hook, called in an ice cream truck and handed out ice cream to the cast himself.
Matofsky’s career will only grow from here. Described by his talent agency as a confident and lovable individual, the actor has also been appointed as an ambassador for Down Syndrome UK, reminding others in the community that their condition isn’t the only thing that defines them.
He says several people have already asked for his autograph. “I’m a bit of a hero,” he comments.
Peter Pan & Wendy will fly to Disney+ on April 28.
