Bradley Riches, renowned for his portrayal of James McEwan in Netflix's Heartstopper, is set to join the cast of ITV's long-running soap opera, Emmerdale. The 23-year-old actor, who also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother in 2024, expressed immense excitement about this new venture, especially since Emmerdale was his grandfather's favorite soap. Riches' character is shrouded in secrecy, with producers revealing only that he will play a mysterious relative connected to an existing villager, promising to stir the dynamics within the community. Filming has commenced, and viewers can anticipate his debut on-screen in May.
Before this role, Riches gained prominence through his work in Heartstopper, where he portrayed James McEwan, a student at Truham Grammar School. His character evolved from a guest appearance in Season 1 to a recurring role in subsequent seasons, reflecting his growing significance in the series. In addition to his television work, Riches showcased his versatility by participating in Celebrity Big Brother in 2024, finishing in sixth place. He also appeared in the BBC Three comedy-horror series Wreck as Freddie, further cementing his status as a rising star in British television.
Riches' addition to Emmerdale has generated significant buzz among fans and critics alike, eager to see how his character will intertwine with the existing narrative and what drama will unfold in the village.
