Emmerdale's Bradley Riches

In new Emmerdale cast news, Heartstopper star Bradley Riches joins the soap as a new regular character. But, who will he play?

Fans will recognise the actor for playing the role of James McEwan in the hit Netflix series. And, Bradley has also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother as a housemate in 2024.

But, Bradley will now be switching from the fictional set of Truham Grammar School in Heartstopper to the Emmerdale village.

Emmerdale's Bradley Riches promo pic
Bradley will be a new regular on the role (Credit: ITV)

Heartstopper star Bradley Riches joins the cast of Emmerdale

Bradley Riches has just started filming on the ITV Yorkshire based soap as a new, regular character.

The actor began filming this week, with his first scenes airing on screen in May this year.

At the moment, nothing else has been revealed as to who Bradley plays, with even the name of his character being kept a secret for now.

However, in the coming weeks, more details are set to be announced on Bradley’s character.

This news comes after viewers were acquainted to another new face this week, as Sarah made friends with ‘bad boy’ newcomer, Kammy.

Emmerdale's Bradley Riches promo pic
The details of Bradley’s character are currently a secret (Credit: ITV)

Bradley Riches on new Emmerdale role

Excited to join the much-loved British soap, Bradley has now shared his feelings on being the latest Dales’ addition.

Actor Bradley Riches said: “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…”

Emmerdale Producer Laura Shaw also then teased: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Bradley to the Emmerdale family. Bradley brings a wealth of talent and his warmth, wit and charisma makes him perfect for this new Emmerdale role. We have some wonderful stories for him to play and we can’t wait for the audience to see Bradley bring his new character bursting into life on screen.”

Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

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