In an exciting episode of the award-winning podcast OUTCAST UK, actor Bradley Riches shares insights into his career and experiences as he celebrates the release of Heartstopper Season 3 on Netflix. Joined by host Graeme Smith, Riches reflects on his unexpected journey into acting, his time on Celebrity Big Brother, and his budding career in radio and podcasting with Virgin Radio Pride.
From Drama School to Heartstopper: A Surreal Journey
The Audition That Changed Everything
Bradley Riches reminisces about his early days in drama school, where he took a leap of faith and auditioned for Heartstopper. “My first audition for Heartstopper was a big moment for me,” he recalls. “I’d applied during my first year of drama school, and I didn’t expect anything to come of it.”
After landing a smaller role in the inaugural season, he witnessed the show’s meteoric rise to global fame. “It was surreal to see the fan response,” he shares. “People were making TikToks about my one line, theorizing about what it meant for the next season. That’s when I realized just how big the Heartstopper community really is.”
The Global Impact of Heartstopper
The widespread acclaim for Heartstopper has cultivated a vibrant and passionate fan base. Riches notes how the series has sparked conversations about love, identity, and acceptance among its viewers. “The community around Heartstopper is truly special,” he states, emphasizing the importance of representation in media.
Expanding Horizons: Bradley Riches’ Radio Journey
A Natural Progression into Radio
Riches’ foray into radio came with his show Authentically Me on Virgin Radio Pride. He describes radio as a natural extension of his creativity. “I’ve always wanted to work in media, and Virgin Radio Pride gave me a chance to showcase a different side of myself,” he explains.
He appreciates the platform’s ability to facilitate discussions about LGBTQ+ topics. “Radio lets me connect on a more personal level – it’s really about creating a space for people to feel seen and understood,” he adds. This endeavor reflects Riches’ commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
A Brave Representation: Celebrity Big Brother Experience
Normalizing Conversations About Mental Health
Riches’ appearance on Celebrity Big Brother provided him with an opportunity to represent neurodiversity and address mental health issues on a mainstream platform. “I’m so proud of the impact I had,” he remarks. “When people tell me that seeing me on TV helped them feel less alone, that’s worth more than anything.”
His heartfelt connection with viewers has been profound, illustrating the power of representation in entertainment. “I hope to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and understand that it’s okay to seek help,” he reflects.
A Vision for Future Representation
As the conversation shifts, Riches shares his aspirations for more representation in media, particularly for LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse individuals. He mentions a lighthearted discussion about potentially appearing on Strictly Come Dancing, expressing, “I’d love the chance to bring a bit more diversity to that show. I think it’s time for more LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse representation in mainstream media.”
Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Ambitions
Exciting Ventures on the Horizon
As the episode draws to a close, Graeme Smith inquires about Riches’ goals for the upcoming year. Riches expresses his excitement for an upcoming Amazon series and a concert performance in New York. “It’s been a wild year,” he laughs, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he’s received. “I’m so lucky to have these opportunities, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!”
The Significance of OUTCAST UK
Since its inception, OUTCAST UK has established itself as a significant voice in LGBTQ+ media, garnering accolades such as Best New Podcast at the British Podcast Awards and an ARIA nomination. With Riches’ episode now available on platforms like Apple and Spotify, listeners can gain deeper insights into his life and career.
