Bradley Riches Makes Emmerdale History with Neurodivergent Role

Bradley Riches, known for his role in Netflix’s Heartstopper, is set to make history in Emmerdale by portraying Lewis Barton, the show’s first openly neurodivergent character. This casting marks a significant step forward in authentic representation on British television

Lewis Barton is introduced as the younger brother of Ross, Pete, and the late Finn Barton. A university student in Leeds, Lewis reaches out to his family, seeking connection and understanding. Riches was initially considered for a different role but was ultimately cast as Lewis, a character he feels aligns closely with his own experiences .(

Authentic Representation

Both Riches and his character, Lewis, are autistic. Diagnosed at the age of nine, Riches has been an advocate for neurodivergent representation in media. He emphasized the importance of identity-first language, stating, “I am autistic,” and praised the show’s writers for their openness to accurately portraying autism

Supportive Environment

To ensure a comfortable working environment, Emmerdale has made several accommodations for Riches, including modifying scripts and call sheets for easier readability and providing chill-out rooms on set . These efforts reflect the show’s commitment to inclusivity and support for neurodivergent individuals.(

A Personal Milestone

Joining Emmerdale holds personal significance for Riches, as it was his grandfather’s favorite show. He expressed his excitement, stating, “I just know he’d be over the moon.” Riches hopes his role will inspire others and contribute to greater awareness and understanding of neurodiversity .Bradley Riches’ portrayal of Lewis Barton represents a meaningful advancement in the representation of neurodivergent individuals on mainstream television, offering audiences a more inclusive and authentic viewing experience.(