An MCU behind-the-scenes story that is sure to tug at the heartstrings involves Alaqua Cox and Lauren Ridloff. The Eternals actress, who portrayed a deaf superhero, Makkari capable of giving The Flash tough competition with her super speed, formed a deep bond with Echo’s Alaqua Cox while the latter was working on Hawkeye.
What set their connection apart was the unique aspect they both shared, and that was navigating the entertainment industry as deaf actresses, which is no easy feat. Consequently, Ridloff, with her considerable industry experience, became a guiding force for Cox throughout the show.
How Did Lauren Ridloff and Alaqua Cox Forge a Bond Behind the Scenes?
One remarkable aspect shared by the two actresses mentioned here, Lauren Ridloff and Alaqua Cox, is their significant role as deaf representation in the film industry, notably within the superhero community. And the story of how the two met adds another layer to this inspiring story. Despite sharing a cinematic universe, their introduction occurred through Ridloff’s husband, who served as an ASL master in Echo and, speculatively, in Hawkeye as well, and thus brought the two together.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the actress shared how the Eternals actress became her guiding force in the industry when she felt overwhelmed. She said,
“I got to know her when I was filming Hawkeye. All three of us lived in Atlanta, so we were able to hang out a few times. We got coffee here and there. We went to the park. We talked about her role as Makkari, and she knew I was feeling very overwhelmed at that time on set because it was my first time. So Lauren gave me some advice about her experience on set and what it was going to be like for me. So that was really nice to be able to get to know her in those moments. I really love that family.”
Not only did the two become best friends, but they also became each other’s go-to support whenever they needed it.
Alaqua Cox’s Unique On-Set Experience as a Deaf Performer in Hollywood
Hawkeye marked Alaqua Cox’s debut in acting, bringing with it a mix of excitement and nerves. Being a newcomer, especially as a deaf individual in the film industry, presented additional challenges. Fortunately, her castmates played a crucial role in making her feel welcomed into the family.
She once shared her experience with the D23 Magazine,
“I remember meeting Jeremy Renner on my first day of work, I was a nervous wreck, as it was my very first acting job. He complimented me in ASL, which comforted me. Hailee Steinfeld also spelled out her name to me in ASL at the studio where we were doing our stunt training. I thought it was sweet of them to put in the effort to learn basic ASL just to communicate with me. It means a lot as a deaf person.”
While Marvel Studios took steps to ensure the actresses felt fully supported during the filming of their projects by hiring consultants and interpreters, what adds an even sweeter touch to this story is that several actors and filmmakers went the extra mile to learn basic expressions in American Sign Language, to truly make her feel welcomed.
As the proud representatives of Deaf inclusion in the MCU, these two actresses are very happy to be a part of this journey, delighted that more people are getting to know the stories of these extraordinary characters.
