Emmerdale has welcomed a new face to its cast, and it's none other than a former Celebrity Big Brother star who won over the nation during his stint on the show.
Bradley Riches, 23 – best known for his role as James McEwan in Netflix's LGBTQ+ teen drama 'Heartstopper' – was a popular figure in the 23rd series of Celebrity Big Brother in 2024. His candidness on camera and determination to "push himself" on CBB endeared him to viewers across the UK.
In an emotional conversation about his diagnosis with autism with American actress and singer Marisha Wallace, Bradley confessed: "I lie there in bed, and I think about how I'm gonna greet everyone in the morning, like how am I gonna say hi to everyone in the morning."
His openness resonated with many on social media, with one fan praising him: "I love that he opened up about this. It's so hard because people have no idea how much energy and effort goes on internally to make it all happen".
Now, it seems fans will be seeing much more of their favourite CBB star. On Wednesday (March 19), Bradley took to Instagram to share his excitement about joining Emmerdale later this year as a regular character.
He teased fans by promising an "insider scoop" about his character, only to be playfully shut down off-camera by the producer after each sentence he tried to speak.
Wrapping up the video, Bradley eagerly told fans to look out for his "big entrance coming later this year on Emmerdale".
Emmerdale and Celebrity Big Brother enthusiasts took to the comments section to cheer for Bradley's new endeavour, with a wave of support calling his role "well-deserved" and lauding his incredible charisma.
A comment read: "Okay, he seems bright and bubbly. I hope I get to like him; I'm glad he kept quiet because I don't like spoilers."
Bradley's pal said in excitement: "This is so exciting! Proud of you!"
Another chimed in: "Be careful, @brad_riches, it's a dangerous place! Murders, kidnappings and a lot of ex-addicts live in the village. Look after yourself!"
One more fan was eager to see Bradley in action: "I can't wait to meet Bradley. I don't know him as I don't watch Big Brother, but he looks like a lot of fun."
David Potts, who emerged victorious on CBB, also addedr: "The dales are about to slay so hard!"
However, some fans expressed reservations about the character Bradley would portray, with one anxious viewer saying: "Omg, don't say it is another Dingle. How many of them is there? It is basically just all about them in that show."
