Emmerdale’s Bradley Riches Opens Up About Autism and the Reality of Masking
Emmerdale actor Bradley Riches, who plays Lewis Barton, has shared an emotional and insightful message about living with autism — both on and off-screen. The 22-year-old actor, who joined the ITV soap earlier this year, took to social media to explain how his character’s small gestures and behaviors reflect a very real experience known as autistic masking.
Lewis Barton’s Journey in Emmerdale
Lewis arrived in the village earlier this year as the long-lost son of Emma Barton, who had placed him for adoption years ago. His return brought emotional tension and new beginnings, especially with his half-brother Ross Barton (Mike Parr).
Though their relationship was initially strained — particularly after Ross threatened to report Lewis’s cannabis plants to the police — the two brothers have since built a fragile but improving bond. Lewis has since settled into village life, even trying to play matchmaker between Ross and Steph, with mixed success.
But beyond the drama, Lewis’s character stands out for something deeper — his portrayal of autism, which Bradley himself brings to life with honesty and heart.
“It’s Not Fake — It’s Survival”: Bradley on Masking
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Bradley addressed comments from viewers who had noticed Lewis’s “little laughs” and subtle quirks on screen. Some fans had said they found the behaviors distracting or odd — prompting Bradley to explain that these are intentional and rooted in truth.
He wrote that Lewis’s gestures are a form of autism masking — the practice of mimicking social behaviors to feel safe or accepted in neurotypical spaces.
“It’s a way to seem warm, reduce awkwardness, and fill the gaps,” he explained. “Other types of masking can include copying gestures or rehearsing lines before speaking. It isn’t fake — it’s survival.”
Bradley went on to emphasize how exhausting masking can be for autistic people, and why greater understanding and acceptance are vital.
“Acceptance is what’s needed. You’ll never say the wrong thing by being curious,” he continued. “The fact that people are asking questions, learning, and wanting to understand means everything. That’s how real change happens.”
A Meaningful Step for Representation
Fans have praised Bradley’s openness, calling it a powerful step forward for representation in British television. His portrayal of Lewis offers visibility for autistic individuals in mainstream media — something still rare in soaps.
By sharing his personal experience, Bradley bridges the gap between fiction and real life, helping audiences see that autism is not a single narrative but a spectrum of lived experiences.
As Emmerdale continues to develop Lewis’s storyline, viewers can expect to see more of Bradley’s nuanced performance — one that blends education, empathy, and authenticity.