Bradley Riches, the talented actor known for playing Lewis Barton in “Emmerdale,” recently shared insights about his autism diagnosis and the transformative power of acting. Speaking on ITV’s “Loose Women,” he emphasized how drama classes played a crucial role in developing his communication skills and personal growth.
Personal Journey with Autism
Riches received his autism diagnosis at the age of nine. He faced significant challenges, including not using verbal communication until he turned 10. As a child, he relied on alternative methods of communication, such as sounds and movement, to express himself.
Acting as a Catalyst for Change
During his appearance, the 23-year-old actor reflected on how drama classes offered him a safe space to build confidence. Initially hesitant, he recounted how his grandmother encouraged him to attend a drama class. This decision proved significant for his personal development.
- Acting helped Riches improve his verbal communication.
- Exposure to different accents through drama aided his speech.
- Riches learned to express himself by embodying various characters.
He noted, “It’s like, obviously, growing up, not speaking, and then my nan being like, ‘Let’s just throw him into a drama class for confidence.'” This initial push led to a profound transformation in his life.
Representation in the Media
Riches expressed pride in representing the autistic community through his role as Lewis Barton. He noted that being able to play a character who shares his experiences as both autistic and gay is deeply meaningful to him.
“When I found out Lewis was an autistic character, I was thrilled. I want to tell positive autistic stories,” he stated. His commitment to bringing authentic representations of autism to the screen highlights the importance of inclusivity in media.
Viewing Information
“Loose Women” airs at 12:30 PM on weekdays, while “Emmerdale” is available weeknights at 7:30 PM on ITV1 and can be streamed from 7 AM on ITVX.
Through his journey, Bradley Riches continues to inspire many, illustrating how acting can be a powerful outlet for self-expression and personal growth. His dedication to elevating autistic stories in the media serves as a beacon of hope for individuals within the community.
