Bradley Riches Steps Into the Spotlight
Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has given fans a glimpse into the exciting future of his character, Lewis Barton. The 23-year-old actor, who first rose to fame on Celebrity Big Brother and Netflix, is now making waves on ITV’s iconic soap. Speaking after a heartfelt appearance at the National Diversity Awards 2025, Riches revealed what’s next for the show’s first neurodivergent character — and it sounds like viewers should brace themselves for big developments.
A Night of Celebration and Community
The National Diversity Awards returned on September 19, filling Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral with inspirational figures from across the country. The black-tie ceremony, often compared to the Golden Globes, shines a spotlight on grassroots heroes, charities, and role models working to improve lives in their communities.
Riches attended the event not only as a guest but also as a presenter, handing out an award and sharing a moving speech about the importance of visibility. For him, the night was deeply personal.
“The awards celebrate people who don’t get celebrated all the time,” he explained. “They’re doing amazing things in their everyday lives, and this is a night for them. To be surrounded by others who are neurodiverse and queer here is such a special thing. It is all about celebration.”
Lewis Barton: A Character With More To Give
Away from the awards, Riches’ character on Emmerdale has been drawing increasing attention. Lewis Barton, Ross Barton’s half-brother, has already left a mark on viewers as the show’s first neurodivergent character. But according to Riches, audiences have only seen the beginning of his story.
“Right now he doesn’t live in the village, so that might be to come,” he teased. “Maybe some romance? That might be on the cards. But definitely exploring more of his neurodiversity is to come.”
Lewis has been portrayed as cheerful and optimistic, but Riches suggests that there is much more going on beneath the surface. “People so far see Lewis as a joyful character, as he puts on a front. But what is happening behind closed doors is going to be really exciting,” he added.
A Dark Family Past Awaits
The actor also hinted at dramatic family ties that will pull Lewis into deeper storylines. His character’s mother was murdered by Moira Dingle, a revelation that shocked fans earlier this year. Now, Riches confirmed, Lewis will be meeting other members of his family — a development that could set the stage for fresh conflicts, emotional reunions, and possibly explosive confrontations.
“There is a lot more to come,” Riches promised, making it clear that Lewis’s presence in Emmerdale is only going to grow.
Why Representation Matters
Riches’ excitement isn’t just about drama and twists — it’s also about visibility. Lewis is breaking new ground in Emmerdale as a neurodivergent character, and Riches takes that responsibility seriously. His commitment to representation reflects the same values that were celebrated at the National Diversity Awards, where community leaders were honoured for their impact on inclusivity.
A Star on the Rise
As Riches stood among celebrities, activists, and community champions in Liverpool, his role in Emmerdale felt all the more significant. Both his on-screen work and his off-screen advocacy highlight the importance of diversity in storytelling. Fans can expect him to keep pushing boundaries, both in the soap world and beyond.
With more romance, family drama, and emotional revelations ahead, Emmerdale is setting Lewis Barton up as one of the village’s most intriguing new arrivals. For Bradley Riches, it seems the best is yet to come.
