Emmerdale star Bradley Riches, who plays Lewis in the soap, opened up about being autistic in the public eye. He shared his thoughts, experiences and troubles. He has also written a book and shared a beautiful message. Keep reading to know more.
Bradley Riches Gets Real About Being Autistic!
Bradley Riches plays the character of Lewis in the soap. He arrived as Ross Barton’s long-lost brother. He wanted to know the truth about his mother. Though there were misunderstandings between them, they sorted things out between them. Meanwhile, he also started working in the pub and had a panic attack. He opened up to Vinny about it.
Elsewhere, the soap star is the first neurodivergent character in the show. Bradley also recently introduced his book, Autistically Me: How to understand and celebrate our autistic minds. It includes his experience and guidance for navigating autism.
Bradley Riches spoke to the Manchester Evening News and reflected on the diagnosis, identity and life in the public eye. He gave the message that you are not broken. You are you, which is amazing. Thus, they should go and thrive in the world. The book sheds light on seeking a diagnosis and understanding autism. He said that his book will benefit everyone in the different stages of life.
Bradley Shares His Experience
Elsewhere, the Emmerdale star was diagnosed with autism at the age of nine. He didn’t speak more than a few words until he was ten. Bradley said that after diagnosis, one is the same person as they were before. Meanwhile, the soap fans know that his character is neurodivergent. Lewis’s storylines reflect the everyday realities of autism. Bradley said that seeing someone onscreen would have been transformative for him growing up.
Meanwhile, Bradley said that he faces barriers when it comes to red carpets, interviews and public appearances. He said that if a big award were happening tonight, and someone asked him to come to it. He wouldn’t be able to do it. Bradley needs a couple of months before an event. The soap star also added that he doesn’t really enjoy talking for the sake of talking. However, he has to face society.
He also reflected on the positive side. Bradley said that if he is with his people and they are right for him, then he can flourish in those environments. Meanwhile, last year Bradley was given the Best Newcomer Award. He is feeling nice as people are accepting him. Elsewhere, Bradley also said that Netflix was supportive when they were informed that he was autistic. He said that if a big corporation like Netflix can care, then a little coffee shop down the road or anyone else can care too. Meanwhile, do you like the star? Share your thoughts in the comments. Keep following Soap Opera Daily for more Emmerdale updates .