Emmerdale newcomer Bradley Riches has opened up about the painful prejudices he faced growing up, revealing he was once cruelly told he would never work because of his autism. Today, he is one of the most inspiring young stars on the soap, playing Lewis Barton — and bringing real-life authenticity to the role.

The 23-year-old actor, who was diagnosed autistic at nine and remained non-verbal until he was 12, says he feels immense pride watching Emmerdale explore Lewis’s daily challenges in a nuanced and respectful way.

“There Was Never Anyone Like Me on TV”

Since Lewis arrived in the village in May, viewers have seen subtle glimpses of how he navigates the world. In upcoming episodes, that struggle comes to the surface when a housewarming party overwhelms him, forcing him to seek refuge with Nicola. For Bradley, it’s a moment that deeply resonates.

Like Lewis, Bradley used to mask his emotions at social events and often left parties abruptly when things became too much. “I hope by exploring Lewis more, we can kill off misconceptions,” he says. “Being autistic isn’t negative — it’s just different.”

Non-Verbal Until 12 — and Communicating Through Pictures

Bradley’s journey has been extraordinary. As a child, he stayed at home until he was nine, happily living in a world of Lego, picture cards and colour-based communication. If he wanted different socks, he’d stick a pair to the wall.

Thanks to “unbelievable” support from his parents, chefs Karen and Julian, he never felt like an outsider. But the turning point came when his nan encouraged him to join drama classes. Slowly, he found his voice — with his first spoken word being “Abba”, his attempt at saying his sister Amber’s name.

Even then, it wasn’t easy. Bradley recalls being bullied at school for struggling with words beginning with “R”. But acting soon became his sanctuary and ultimately his calling.

From Heartstopper to Emmerdale

After starring in Netflix’s Heartstopper and winning fans on Celebrity Big Brother in 2024, Bradley’s career took a life-changing turn when an Emmerdale casting director approached him at the NTAs.

He first auditioned for the role of Dylan, but when scheduling clashed, he was invited to read for Lewis — a part he now describes as “cool, meaningful, and powerful”.

A Big Storyline Ahead

Bradley teases that Lewis’s biggest shock is still to come — including the identity of his father, a mystery viewers will uncover long before Lewis does.

Now engaged to theatre director Scott Johnston and living happily in Leeds, Bradley says life has never been better. “Playing Lewis is such a privilege. Everything is going great.”