Netflix and Sign Language: A Look at Key Projects

by DMDb –  April 3, 2026

Netflix has increasingly showcased content that highlights Deaf culture, sign language, and authentic representation by Deaf actors. From real‑life stories to scripted drama, these projects offer visibility and nuance rarely seen on global streaming platforms.

🎓 Deaf U (2020) — Docuseries / Reality

One of the earliest Netflix shows to centre Deaf culture is Deaf U, a reality docuseries following a group of Deaf and hard‑of‑hearing college students at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. The series not only explores friendships, relationships, and college life, but also dives deep into identity, communication styles, and community dynamics within the Deaf world — including extensive use of American Sign Language (ASL) in everyday life on campus.

💃 Feel the Beat (2020) — Series

While Feel the Beat isn’t centred on Deaf culture, this Netflix dance‑drama includes a prominent supporting role played by a Deaf actress, Shaylee Mansfield, who portrays Zuzu, an important member of the dance ensemble. Her presence and sign language usage contribute to the film’s inclusivity and diversity.

📽️ Audible (2021) — Documentary Short

The short documentary Audible tells the moving story of a senior student and football player at the Maryland School for the Deaf as he and his teammates balance sport, personal loss, and a close‑knit community. Released on Netflix, this film was notable for its emotional depth and for bringing Deaf students’ experiences — including signed communication and Deaf culture — into sharp focus.

🏝️ Welcome to Eden (2022–2023) — Series

The Spanish series Welcome to Eden (Bienvenidos a Edén) features Carlos Soroa, a real‑life Deaf actor whose mother tongue is Spanish Sign Language (LSE). His character Eloy communicates using sign language in the story, making the series one of the few international scripted Netflix dramas with a Deaf character portrayed authentically on screen. Although Eloy is not one of the main protagonists, his presence (and the inclusion of sign language in scenes with him) enhances representation and awareness within a high‑production thriller format.

📺 Black Rabbit (2025) — Series

In the 2025 Netflix limited series Black Rabbit, Oscar‑winning actor Troy Kotsur, who is deaf in real life, portrays a powerful crime figure whose communication often involves American Sign Language (ASL). Kotsur’s role is noteworthy not only for his performance but also because it expands the type of characters Deaf actors are cast in and shows sign language integrated naturally into mainstream storytelling.

🎤 Feel My Voice (Non abbiam bisogno di parole) (2026) — Feature Film

Releasing on April 3, 2026, Feel My Voice (Italian title Non abbiam bisogno di parole) is a Netflix original film directed by Luca Ribuoli. It tells the heartfelt story of Eletta (Sarah Toscano), the only hearing member of a Deaf family, who discovers she has an extraordinary singing voice and must choose between following her dreams and staying close to her loved ones. 

What makes this film especially significant for sign language representation is its authentically Deaf cast: actors Emilio Insolera, Carola Insolera, and Antonio Iorillo, who are Deaf in real life, play Eletta’s family members and use Italian Sign Language (LIS) on screen. Their inclusion helps bring genuine Deaf voices, communication styles, and lived experiences into a major Netflix production — not just as background representation but as integral characters and storytelling elements. 

Why This Matters

The inclusion of Deaf actors, sign language, and authentic Deaf stories in Netflix projects is more than representation — it is a step toward visibility, inclusivity, and cultural understanding on a global scale. By integrating signed communication into mainstream narratives, Netflix not only gives Deaf performers the recognition they deserve but also educates and engages hearing audiences, breaking down stereotypes and fostering empathy. Each project, from reality docuseries to international thrillers and feature films, demonstrates that Deaf voices and sign language are not just supplementary — they are essential to telling richer, more diverse, and meaningful stories.