YAFTA Talent Agency actor, James Moore has made TV history after being been crowned Best Newcomer in last night’s National Television Awards following his ground-breaking role as Ryan Stocks in Emmerdale.
James is the first disabled actor to win the coveted award and Emmerdale’s first actor with cerebral palsy cast in a lead role.
Following his win, James said: “I am over the moon to have won an NTA. Since joining Emmerdale it’s been a whirlwind and I’m loving every second of it. I’m so pleased and hope that winning this award will show people that having a disability shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your dreams.”
Charlotte Armitage, Managing Director of YAFTA Talent Agency and the Yorkshire Academy of Film and Television based in Leeds said:
“We are so proud of James. This is fantastic news! We are so passionate as an agency about promoting, celebrating and encouraging accuracy in on-screen representations of diversity. James’ win is a great example what can be achieved, and he is a great role model for other actors with disabilities. This win really is a testament to how much public understanding and appreciation of disability has evolved. We couldn’t be happier!”
YAFTA (Yorkshire Academy of Film and Television Acting) is leading the way in changing on-screen representation of diversity. Alongside James, YAFTA has also placed Down Syndrome actor, Liam Bairstow as a regularly character on Coronation Street. The Academy has also launched a new You Can scholarship aiming to encourage those from underrepresented and minority groups to pursue a career in Film and TV.
