“Emmerdale star Bradley Riches discussed his autism diagnosis and the positive impact of drama classes on ITV’s Loose Women.”
Emmerdale favourite Bradley Riches has spoken about his autism diagnosis and how acting “rescued” him.
The actor, who plays Lewis Barton on the ITV soap, was diagnosed at the age of nine and didn’t use verbal communication until he was 10. On Friday (November 21), during his appearance on ITV’s Loose Women, he explained how drama classes played a crucial role in his development, according to the Mirror.
Reflecting on his journey, the Heartstopper star told the panel: “For me, especially during my childhood, I didn’t use words for formal communication until I was 10.”
When asked about how he communicated, Bradley explained: “Through sounds, movements, and communication cards. For instance, if my shoes didn’t feel right, I’d use a card and tap it to let my parents know.”
When asked if drama lessons had made a difference, he replied: “Yeah, I think acting really saved me in many ways.
“Growing up, not speaking much, my nan suggested, ‘Let’s just put him in a drama class to build confidence.’ At first, I thought, ‘That’s crazy.’ But I went along, and I started listening to, you know, TV shows with American accents. Over time, I began mimicking them, and through playing different characters, I gradually learned and expressed myself.”
Bradley explained: “Through a character, I started thinking, ‘OK, how would Bradley say this? How would I do this?’”
He added: “Acting became a form of escapism for me, and it really helped me grow and change.”
At 23, Bradley made his debut on ITV’s Emmerdale this year as Lewis Barton and was excited to take on the role.
He told the panel: “When I learned that Lewis was an autistic character, it was huge for me. In every role I take, I’ve always wanted to represent the communities I belong to, whether that’s the queer community or the autistic community.
“So, discovering that Lewis is both gay and autistic, I was like, ‘Yes, I’m in!’”
“I’ve always wanted to tell autistic stories, especially ones that are positive,” he added.
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