Emmerdale actor James Moore has been a fan favourite since joining the ITV hit soap as Ryan Stocks, who is Charity Dingle’s long-lost son
James Moore is well known for his role as Ryan Stocks on ITV hit soap Emmerdale and has been well-received by viewers since joining the show.
The Cheltenham-born actor made his debut in 2018 as Charity Dingle’s long-lost son, which was revealed during her harrowing sexual abuse storyline. Her son was conceived after Charity was raped by policeman Mark Bails at the age of 14. Ryan then sent shockwaves throughout the Dingle clan when he appeared in the Yorkshire village looking for his mum.
He has since been part of some huge storylines, including Charity’s court case against Ryan’s evil biological father, corrupt police officer Mark Bails.
Away from the soap, James’ real life is a lot less dramatic. Before joining Emmerdale, he did a degree in photography and studied at the National Youth Theatre.
Health battle
James has ataxic cerebral palsy and is a huge advocate for disability representation in the media. Opening up about his disability to Disability Horizons, he said: “So firstly, I have cerebral palsy (CP), but it’s Ataxic CP, which basically means that I struggle with movement and co-ordination. I find it difficult to walk long distances and there are certain things I know I can’t do, but I’ve adapted to these challenges in my day-to-day life.
He added: “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.”
Love life
James and partner Sophie Edwards, who got engaged in May 2022, recently tied the knot at a scenic lakeside manor house. The actor hinted at their wedding earlier this week when James changed his Instagram bio to ‘Husband to Sophie Edwards.’
For the sweet nuptials, one hundred guests attended their special day including some of his Emmerdale cast members. James opted to add a pop of colour to his wedding ceremony as he walked down the aisle wearing a deep purple two-piece suit.
Sophie looked elegant as she graced the aisle in a princess-like wedding dress that featured leaf detailing. The couple incorporated their personality with a Simpsons-themed doughnut wall. There was also a temporary tattoo station with an array of Pokemon designs.
Speaking about his thoughts on sticking to traditions, James told OK!: “We never wanted to be particularly traditional. I mean, my suit was blooming purple. It took me months to find.”
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.
