Emmerdale star Beth Cordingly stepped in to defend new co-star Bradley Riches after he was subjected to hate comments over his role.
Due to arrive on screens in May, actor Bradley Riches is set to join the ITV soap as a new regular character. Known for his role in Netflix series Heartstopper and for appearing in the last series of Celebrity Big Brother, Bradley officially started filming his first scenes last month.
Speaking about his new role, Bradley shared: “I’m beyond excited to be joining Emmerdale! It’s a real bucket list moment for me, especially since it was my grandad’s favourite soap, I just know he’d be over the moon.
“Everyone has been so lovely and welcoming, and the village is even more amazing in real life. I absolutely love my character (though I can’t spill too much just yet!), and I’m just so grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s in store…”
Bradley will be playing the role of Lewis(Image: ITV)
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However, shortly after his role was announced, the 23-year-old actor took to his social media as he reflected on some of the hateful and homophobic comments he had received.
He wrote: “Beyond excited to be joining Emmerdale! A dream come true. But let’s talk real for a second. Some of the comments and messages I’ve received are vile.
“Too many people are quick to judge me regarding my sexuality or being autistic, without thinking about the impact of their words. Before you speak, ask yourself: Do I really need to say this? Kindness costs nothing, but mean comments and hiding behind your screens says a LOT about you.”
He then added: “But lucky for you I won’t be behind a screen… I will be on YOUR SCREEN! If you’re mad stay mad! See you soon x”
Before his soon-to-come Emmerdale stint, Bradley is known for his role in Netflix’s Heartstopper. He took on the role of James McEwan in the graphic novel turned TV series that focused on the realities of teens figuring out their sexuality as well as navigating regular life.
Recently, Beth Cordingly decided to step in to defend Bradley after he posted about filming his first scenes in Emmerdale as Lewis.
When a viewer asked if he’s ever acted before and complained they’d never heard of him, Beth responded: “I don’t think he’s acting like that at all. I think he’s being very humble and grateful and gorgeous about it all.
“And who cares if you’ve never heard of him? He doesn’t. And nor do we. We love him. That’s why we are following his page. So if you’d like to be unkind, please can you do it somewhere else, not on his page. (On my page is fine. I’m old and used to it. And I’ll just block you anyway)”
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Beth joined the soap herself in 2024 to take on the role of Ruby Miligan who has recently been centre stage thanks to a harrowing storyline focused on her abusive father Anthony Fox who has since been murdered.
