Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has responded to criticism of his character Lewis Barton. In a powerful post, which he shared on social media, the Heartstopper actor explained why his character laughs a lot, saying “acceptance matters so much”.

Joining the soap back in May, Riches was introduced as Ross Barton’s long-lost half-brother and the soap’s first ever neurodivergent character. Like his character, Riches is also autistic.

Taking to Instagram, Riches reacted to fans who have called his character “annoying” for laughing a lot, explaining that it is Lewis’ way of “masking”.

Along with a picture of himself in character, Riches shared a statement that read: “Some people have said the little laughs or giggles my character Lewis does in scenes are “annoying” or they don’t get it ….. well wonder no more because the fact is: that’s autistic masking.

“Masking means hiding or managing natural autistic traits to fit in or meet social expectations. In customer service or café settings, autistic people often “put on a show” – smiling more, using friendly tones, or laughing after sentences (like I do in real life and Lewis does) because that’s what the job expects and what feels safest socially.”

His statement continued: “That little laugh isn’t random. It’s a way to seem warm, to soften interactions, or to fill the gap when you are unsure what reaction is expected. It can also help manage anxiety in the moment – a learned habit to keep the social energy going.

“Other types of masking can include copying people’s gestures or phrases, forcing eye contact, rehearsing lines before speaking, or hiding sensory discomfort. It’s not fake – it’s survival.”

He concluded: “But it’s also exhausting, which is why understanding and acceptance matter so much.”

He captioned the post: “You’ll never say the wrong thing by being curious. The fact that people are asking questions, learning, and wanting to understand means everything – that’s how real change and inclusion happen.”

Fans and fellow celebrities took to the comment section to congratulate Riches on his portrayal of Lewis, praising his depiction of the neurodivergent character.

Responding to the post, his co-star Shebz Miah, who plays Kammy Hadiq, commented: “Those giggles after anything you say is one of the most adorable things I find about you.”

Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips wrote: “With you every step of the way. Keep opening doors, keep smiling your smile, looking forward to next week. If you know you know.”

“This is brilliant, thank you for explaining this and helping people to understand more. I love Lewis! You’re doing an amazing job,” penned a fan.

Another fan wrote: “Absolutely well said! I appreciate you bringing light to what us autistic individuals go through to meet societal expectations.”