Last updated October 10, 2024 – 11:28 AM
Actor Bradley Riches recently sat down with Graham Smith, host of the award-winning podcast OUTCAST UK, to talk behind the scenes of his journey and latest project.
This comes as Season 3 of Heartstoppers launches on Netflix, with Riches taking an unexpected route into TV, with a role on Celebrity Big Brother and an up-and-coming radio show on Virgin Radio Pride. He talked about his own experiences, including his career in podcasting.
Looking back on his entry into the world of acting, Riches recalls: “My first audition for 'Heartstopper' was a big moment for me. I applied during my first year of drama school and had no expectations of what it would turn out to be.”
After being cast in a small role in the first season, he watched in awe as the show became a worldwide phenomenon.
He said how surreal it was to see the fans' reactions. “People were making TikToks about my single word and theorizing about what it meant for the next season. That's when I realized that the Heartstoppers community was really big,” he said. Masu.
During his radio journey with Authenticly Me, Riches said radio felt like a natural extension of his creativity.
“I've always wanted to work in media and Virgin Radio Pride has given me the opportunity to show a different side of myself,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to interact with listeners and explore LGBTQ+ topics, saying, “Radio allows you to connect on a more personal level. It's about creating a space to feel that way.''
The conversation turned to Celebrity Big Brother, where Riches spoke about her experience representing neurodiversity and normalizing conversations around mental health.
“I'm very proud of the impact I made,” he said, reflecting on his connection with viewers. “If someone sees me on TV and says they feel less alone, that’s worth more than anything.”
Riches also hinted at his hopes for the future, including the possibility of appearing on a reality show again, saying: I think it's time for more LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse representation in mainstream media. ”
To conclude, Smith asked Riches about his goals for next year. Riches expressed a mixture of ambition and gratitude as he shared his excitement for the upcoming Amazon series and New York concert performance.
“It’s been a great year,” he said with a laugh. “I feel so lucky to have this opportunity and can’t wait to see what happens next!”
Since its launch, OUTCAST UK, hosted by Graham Smith, has grown to become a powerful voice in LGBTQ+ media, winning a Gold Award for Best New Podcast at the British Podcast Awards and receiving an ARIA nomination.
The latest episode with Bradley Riches is now available on podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify.
