During her appearance on the red carpet for Out Magazine’s “Out 100” celebration, where she was honored in the Artists category, Bode candidly shared her insights about the eagerly awaited sequel to Wicked with TooFab. Her excitement was palpable as she navigated questions about the film’s direction and its impact on audiences.

“I worry that speaking too much will land me in trouble because I have a tendency to share extensively,” Bode confessed to TooFab. “However, there’s so much more exciting content on the way. Expect character developments that will surprise you, along with even more enchanting moments. Stay tuned, everyone!”

The 24-year-old Wicked actress, who takes on the role of Elphaba’s sister Nessarose, expressed her joy at celebrating the film’s recent nominations for Golden Globe and Critic’s Choice Awards alongside her dedicated cast and crew.

“It felt surreal. The immense dedication and effort put forth by so many, from the cast to the crew and especially director Jon M. Chu, who is a remarkable hard worker, deserves this recognition. It’s truly thrilling, and I’m overjoyed for everyone involved,” Bode elaborated.

“I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing everyone shine even brighter in the coming year,” she added, expressing optimism about the future of the film and its impact.

Out100 is an annual event that honors the most impactful and influential LGBTQ+ individuals and advocates of the year, recognizing their contributions to the community and beyond.

“I feel great being recognized among the top 100 LGBTQ+ individuals of the year by Out100, alongside so many remarkable queer figures,” Bode shared regarding her accolade. “I had the pleasure of seeing the lovely Nymphia Wind just moments ago. My friends and I were part of this past season of Drag Race. Seeing everyone here living their truth and feeling comfortable doing so is truly inspiring.”

As Wicked continues to break box office records and garner numerous nominations, Bode opened up about her own journey through newfound fame, acknowledging the darker side of social media. Earlier in December, she bravely shared her thoughts on TikTok regarding the negative comments and “jokes” directed at her character, Nessarose.

She further discussed with TooFab the feelings that led her to address these harmful comments publicly.

“I approached that video aiming not only to advocate for myself but to raise awareness that what some may perceive as humor could, in reality, be damaging to me and the broader community,” she began, highlighting the importance of sensitivity in discourse.

She also noted that such harmful commentary is a frequent occurrence in her community.

“It happens at least twice a month when I see a disabled friend or colleague who is outspoken online getting harassed for calling out ableism or discussing accessibility in the most distressing ways,” she explained. “This compelled me to speak up not only for myself but for my community, as I have witnessed it happen far too often.”

“I believe people need to take a moment to step back from the immediate context of a joke they think is funny and consider how it might impact others. Listening to voices that say, ‘Hey, that’s not cool,’ is crucial,” Bode added, highlighting the importance of empathy.

She concluded her conversation with TooFab by imparting a valuable lesson for those engaging online, reminding them that “it’s important to live and to learn.”

“I understand that nobody enjoys feeling reprimanded, but I believe that true progress in marginalized communities often requires discomfort. Growth is frequently uncomfortable, and it’s perfectly acceptable to embrace the learning process,” she stated. “Recognizing when a joke isn’t appropriate, acknowledging that mistake, and moving forward is essential.”