'Emmerdale' has announced that James Moore will play Charity Dingle's son Ryan Stocks.
Ryan Stocks and Charity Dingle
The actor will first be seen in the role next week after it was revealed on the show on Monday (29.05.18) that the child Charity believed had died at birth 27 years ago actually is alive.
The character has Ataxic Cerebral Palsy, but will challenge misconceptions about his disability - and it remains to be seen if he will forgive his biological mum for leaving him when he was a baby.
Acting Series Producer Kate Brooks has heaped praise on James, and teased the impact Ryan's introduction will have on Charity (Emma Atkins) and the rest of the Dingle family.
She said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome James to the show; an actor of real skill, talent and charisma. As to be expected with his Dingle heritage, the character of Ryan is feisty, funny and reckless, and with an unquenchable zest for life.
"Ryan will not only turn Charity's life upside down, but also the wider Dingle clan as his arrival throws a massive spanner in the works. As Ryan navigates his newfound family ties and connects with the mother he never knew he had, it unearths yet another layer to Charity.
"His journey on the show is jam-packed with laughter, tears, unlikely friendships and with the odd unexpected twist thrown in for good measure."
Meanwhile, James spoke of his excitement at joining the ITV soap, and admitted he "leapt a mile" when he was called to be told he'd got the part.
He added: "I'm so excited to have joined the Emmerdale cast. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly and I'm having a great time playing Ryan. I leapt a mile when I got the call and I was over the moon to hear that I had got the part."