We can still have amazing lives too
Leon Harrop’s joy at spin-off with fellow Down’s actor Sarah Gordy
RALPH & KATIE Wednesday, BBC 1, 9pm
The A Word helped shine a light on the issues faced by families of additional needs children during its three-series run. And now, show favourites Ralph and Katie have been given their own spin-off.
The drama follows the couple through the domestic challenges they face in their first year as newlyweds – and how the added stress of both having Down’s syndrome makes an impact.
This is the first show in the UK to feature an all-disabled writers’ room, which is overseen by The A Word creator Peter Bowker. It also employed a predominately disabled crew.
And it is the first show to be led by two actors with a disability – Leon Harrop (Ralph) and Sarah Gordy (Katie), who reprise their roles as the popular couple.
Both are delighted that they get to continue their story. “After that lovely wedding in The A Word, I wanted to know what married life would be like for them and I expect they will do it their way,” said Sarah. Leon added: “It shows that if you are born with a disability, it’s not the end of the world. We can still have amazing lives too.” Sarah said: “It is not all easy for Ralph and Katie but there is always love and honesty at the centre. We are all different, which is a liberating thought. “Katie has Down’s syndrome but she would remind you that she is a woman and a baker first. She is quietly confident about who she is and is a good friend. She has a way of encouraging others to believe in their own uniqueness.”
Leon is equally enthused about the character of Ralph.
He said: “I love playing him because he’s funny and cheeky. He likes to look after Katie and is trying to be more independent.”
Sarah hopes starring in such a prominent role will lead to more opportunities.
“I want to do more film work,” she said. “For me, it is all about the character. I would like to play a character who ages in the story. Or has a side her family wants to see and [explores] how she sees herself.”
As for Leon, he is taking it all in his stride.
He said: “I would love a second series of Ralph And Katie but I haven’t thought about anything else yet as I’m so excited about series one.”
After that lovely wedding, I wanted to know what married life would be like for them. I expect they will do it their way. Sarah Gordy