The Flying Ace Turns 100

A forgotten Black disabled actor's role in 1926 film celebrates 100 years of disability representation.

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Oct 14, 2026

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The Flying Ace Turns 100

A forgotten Black disabled actor's role in 1926 film celebrates 100 years of disability representation.

In brief

A forgotten Black disabled actor's role in 1926 film celebrates 100 years of disability representation. The Flying Ace (1926) features a Black disabled actor, highlighting 100 years of disability representation in cinema. Originally reported by IndieWire.

1926 Film

ANIMALS. (L to R) Kerry Washington as Abigail and Ben Affleck as Mark in Animals. Cr. Warrick Page/Netflix © 2026.

The Flying Ace turns 100 this fall, featuring a Black disabled actor.

“I remember [wondering during] my first viewing was how is this dude riding a bike using the crutch as one of the pedals, pushing it up and down?”

Historical Significance

Disabled actors have been in cinema since its foundation, challenging the myth of their absence.

Modern Context

Joseph Amodio notes the film's innovative portrayal of disability in 1926 cinema.

“I remember [wondering during] my first viewing was how is this dude riding a bike using the crutch as one of the pedals, pushing it up and down?”

The essence

The Flying Ace (1926) features a Black disabled actor, highlighting 100 years of disability representation in cinema.

Read the original on IndieWire

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