Rewriting the Script: Nic Novicki on Disability, Comedy, and Changing Hollywood
Nic Novicki is no stranger to standing out. As a comedian, actor, and producer who also happens to be a little person, Novicki has spent two decades navigating an industry that has often boxed him into stereotypical roles. But rather than accept the status quo, he decided to rewrite the script—literally.
“Early in my career I realized that, as a little person, I was being put in a box with only being invited to audition for roles that were specific to my height. I started to produce and create my own content so that I was able to play the romantic lead and a gangster in roles that I always wanted to play.”
That drive led to work on The Sopranos, Boardwalk Empire, and a host of film and TV projects. But it also sparked something deeper. In 2013, Novicki founded the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, a now-global initiative that empowers filmmakers with disabilities to tell their stories.
Create your own stories
“Twelve years ago, I looked around and said, ‘Why aren’t more people with disabilities creating their own content?’ It led to opportunities for me. So, I created the Disability Film Challenge… and it exploded.”
Since then, over 750 short films have been created through the Challenge, which partners with Easterseals Southern California, the nation’s largest disability services organization. The 2025 edition, running April 1-6, will challenge participants to create stories in the thriller and suspense genre.
Learn more and register at www.DisabilityFilmChallenge.com
Tackling a Glaring Gap
Despite the growing visibility, disabled characters remain starkly underrepresented. According to the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, only 1.9% of speaking characters in major films in 2022 were disabled. And 95% of those roles were played by able-bodied actors.
“When disabled actors are authentically portrayed on screen, the disability community knows it and fully embraces that representation.”
The Film Challenge aims to flip that script. It’s not just about access—it’s about agency.
Empower potential through stories
“We try to give as many people with disabilities as possible the opportunity to take their career into their own hands.”
One notable win? Nik Sanchez, a young autistic actor, landed a role in The Accountant 2 after being connected through the Film Challenge network.
“Over the last 12 years, we’ve had countless success stories where disabled actors took part in the Challenge and ended up getting hired both in front of and behind the camera.”
Thrilling New Frontiers
This year’s thriller & suspense theme opens doors to innovate.
“Disability has not been prominently featured in this genre. We’re excited to see the incredible films that will come out of this year’s competition.”
Beyond genre, Novicki wants Hollywood to embrace authentic storytelling by hiring more disabled writers, directors, and producers.
Diverse voices behind screens
“The next major opportunity to advance inclusion will be to have a stronger presence of disabled writers and producers behind the camera.”
Changing Perceptions, One Film at a Time
The Film Challenge is more than a contest. It’s a pipeline. Award-winning entries receive mentorship from studio execs, casting directors and producers.
“Each winner receives a mentorship meeting. The industry is not just about how talented you are—it’s about relationships.”
And those relationships are bearing fruit. One standout example? Sophia Cheyenne, a little person actress, was cast in a recurring role on Loudermilk after a recommendation from Challenge participants.
Spotlight new talents
“We were able to send Peter Farrelly 10 films starring little person actresses. He hired Sophia after watching them all.”
From Spider-Verse to the Oscars
Novicki’s own career continues to flourish—he recently voiced Lego Spider-Man in the Oscar-winning Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. He also toured internationally with comedian Nate Bargatze, even attending the Vanity Fair Oscar party.
“It’s been a really humbling experience to see so many people I’ve worked with get involved in the Film Challenge, whether as mentors or champions.”
The success is contagious. Challenge alumni have gone on to work in shows like New Amsterdam, Superstore, The Good Doctor, Dahmer, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and more.
Join the film wave
Watch Challenge films and follow along on social media:
Discover unseen perspectives
Looking Ahead
In partnership with Adobe’s Film & TV Fund, the Challenge now awards finishing grants and supports selected films year-round with workshops and educational programming.
“It has been a game changer. It’s helped participants finish films, expand short stories into features, and make them competitive in the marketplace.”
For Novicki, the mission is clear:
Art ignites new horizons
“The more we create as disabled artists, the more opportunities will arise. Authentic representation starts with us.”
Additional Resources
Annenberg Inclusion Initiative
Inspire change through inclusion
Join the Inclusion Movement: www.DisabilityFilmChallenge.com
