Soap star filters out disability prejudice
Emmerdale actor James Moore has said he does not listen when people make negative comments about his disability.
James, who has cerebral palsy, joined the ITV soap last year, and won the Best Newcomer prize at the National Television Awards this week after a public vote.
He said that getting that recognition was “amazing”, but he is “still not used to it”.
James, 26, who plays Ryan Stocks in the soap, said: “People have been saying they’ve been inspired by my story, and that means the absolute world to me.
“I hope I can bring about a more positive attitude about disabled people.”
He told how he did not have the “best time at school ” and “struggled socially”, adding: “I used to get comments from people about my walking. “I just took it on the chin.” James told how he recently heard a nasty comment while using a wheelchair.
He said: “People make comments and people ask me how I deal with it, and I say, ‘ Just don’t listen.’”
“You have to have belief and confidence in yourself and not rely on the acceptance of others. I’m loving what I am doing.
“I ’ m get t ing g reat feedback. I’ve won this wonderful award – and I am living the best life.”
James hopes Ryan, the son of Charity Dingle, will soon get a girlfriend.
He said: “Disabled people are desexualised and you don’t see them having a love interest.”