Emmerdale’s Bradley Riches Responds to Criticism of Lewis in Powerful Message About Autism and Acceptance
Emmerdale actor Bradley Riches has shared an inspiring response to criticism of his character, Lewis Barton, after some viewers called his on-screen mannerisms “annoying.” In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Heartstopper star explained the deeper meaning behind Lewis’s frequent laughter — revealing it reflects a real and personal experience with autistic masking.
“It’s Not Random — It’s Survival”
Bradley, who joined Emmerdale in May as Ross Barton’s long-lost half-brother and the soap’s first-ever neurodivergent character, opened up about the reasoning behind Lewis’s behaviour.
He wrote:
“Some people have said the little laughs or giggles my character Lewis does in scenes are ‘annoying’ or they don’t get it… well, wonder no more because the fact is: that’s autistic masking.”
Bradley went on to define masking as “hiding or managing natural autistic traits to fit in or meet social expectations.” He explained that autistic people often “put on a show” in social situations — smiling, laughing, or using upbeat tones to appear approachable and avoid judgment.
“That little laugh isn’t random,” he continued. “It’s a way to seem warm, to soften interactions, or to fill the gap when you are unsure what reaction is expected. It can also help manage anxiety in the moment – a learned habit to keep the social energy going.”
A Message of Awareness and Acceptance
Bradley further explained that masking can involve mimicking gestures, forcing eye contact, or hiding sensory discomfort — actions many autistic people take to feel safer in unfamiliar environments.
“It’s not fake — it’s survival,” he said. “But it’s also exhausting, which is why understanding and acceptance matter so much.”
He captioned his post with a message that captured the spirit of inclusion:
“You’ll never say the wrong thing by being curious. The fact that people are asking questions, learning, and wanting to understand means everything – that’s how real change and inclusion happen.”
Support from Fans and Co-Stars
Bradley’s post quickly drew praise from Emmerdale fans, co-stars, and celebrities who commended him for using his platform to promote understanding.
Actor Shebz Miah, who plays Kammy Hadiq, commented:
“Those giggles after anything you say is one of the most adorable things I find about you.”
Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips added her support, writing:
“With you every step of the way. Keep opening doors, keep smiling your smile. Looking forward to next week — if you know, you know.”
Viewers also thanked Bradley for shedding light on the autistic experience. One fan wrote:
“Thank you for explaining this and helping people understand more. I love Lewis! You’re doing an amazing job.”
Another added:
“Absolutely well said! I appreciate you bringing light to what us autistic individuals go through to meet societal expectations.”
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A Groundbreaking Step for Representation
Since his debut, Lewis Barton has become a milestone character for Emmerdale, bringing visibility to neurodivergent experiences on mainstream television. Bradley’s personal connection to the role adds authenticity and heart — and his openness off-screen is helping viewers see that representation isn’t just storytelling; it’s education.
Through his words, Bradley reminded audiences that inclusion starts with empathy — and sometimes, what looks like a simple laugh is really a person’s way of surviving in a world that doesn’t always understand them.