Emmerdale actor James Moore saw his character created based on his own disability after he auditioned for the role just two weeks after getting an agent.
Initially pursuing photography as he felt his disability - Ataxic Cerebral Palsy - could prove more difficult to break into acting, the role came up for the Yorkshire soap and he was snapped up at a casting call.
And although ITV producers were looking for a disabled character to come on board - after auditioning James they used his own life and disability to shape that of his character.
Since joining in 2018 as Ryan Stocks he's been part of some huge storylines, including Charity's court case against Ryan's evil biological father, corrupt police officer Mark Bails.
Shared qualities
James, 29, landed his breakout role as Charity Dingle's biological son Ryan in Emmerdale back in 2018, and has since revealed that he had a huge part in shaping his character.
After auditioning for Emmerdale, he explained how the production team did a 'deep dive' into his background and disability.
He previously told The Mirror: "When I was brought in they were very open to learning about me, which I really liked.
"I had a lot of conversations with people at ITV in Leeds and the researcher team, who asked me lots of questions about my disability, what I do – like my background and my early life – they really did a deep dive."
James also added that the character had been written "fantastically" and that although there were some differences between him and Ryan, the two are quite similar to one another.
Disabled rights advocate
As James discovered when looking to pursue acting as a career, the opportunities for those looking to establish themselves in the industry is a tough take.
So since finding fame on the small screen, James has used his platform to promote the need for change to allow those with disabilities to follow their dreams in the acting world.
He previously told The Mirror: "This is why I love being a part of Emmerdale – it’s showing disability in a new light and letting viewers know that disabled people can be independent and have full, healthy lives.
"Together, we’re proving that disability isn’t a defining factor."
Upon joining the Soap he was sent many messages on social media - ignored the ignorant trolls - and focused on his new role.
One fan posted: “As a mum to a special needs child I think it’s brill that @emmerdale have brought you into the cast."
Another added:" And another added: “It’s an absolute treat for our boys & as parents to see a disabled actor in #Emmerdale.”
“Keep kicking down the barriers!” declared another pleased viewer.''
Award success
And his talents as part of the Emmerdale team haven't gone un noticed as he scooped up Best Newcomer at the 2019 National Television Awards.
The star beat fellow actors including EastEnders ' Ricky Champ, Hollyoaks' Aeden Duckworth, Coronation Street's Alexandra Mardell and Casualty's Neet Mohan to claim the award.
Receiving the award, James told the audience in his acceptance speech: "'Thank you so much this means the world to us, a year ago I never thought I'd be here.
"And for Emmerdale to take on someone with a disability shows the progression we need in this day and age. This means the world to me."
Loved up
But one similarity James and his character Ryan don't share is that James is lucky in love.
The Cheltenham-born actor lives with girlfriend Sophie Edwards and their adorable cat Tonto, who he has tattooed onto his leg.
Last year he posted a tribute to Sophie on Instagram to celebrate their then second anniversary together, saying: "We’ve come so far from where we started.
"We live together, we have our own little fur baby, and we are stronger than ever.
"I’m so thankful for your support and encouragement and just pure, absolute love that you give me each and every day, and I can’t wait to make some new memories with you in the years to come. Happy anniversary, I love you."
*Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV at 7pm.
