LONDON (AP) — Matthew Shardlake steps out of the pages of the late C.J. Sansom’s popular historical mystery novels and into a new show, bringing with him disability representation.
“We don’t see a lot of leading disabled characters,” says Arthur Hughes, who plays the title character. “Well, we might, but they might not be played by disabled actors.”
Shardlake is a clever lawyer who solves puzzles and problems during the reign of King Henry VIII. He is also disabled. The character is referred to as a “hunchback” by a rude rival in the books — an example of the attitude of the Tudor period, with no allowance or acceptance of differences.
“I really hope the disabled audience can see that and see maybe some of the parallels with the world we live in today. And also just to show that that a disabled actor can play a leading part,” says Hughes, who was born with radial dysplasia.
Texas ranch hits the market for $4.8 million and is PERFECT for waterpark lovers
Nikola Jokic's brother appears to PUNCH a fan in the face after Nuggets' comeback win over Lakers
Kawhi Leonard returns to the Clippers' lineup for Game 2 against Luka Doncic and the Mavericks
Chilling moment masked thug calmly prepares himself before stabbing a stranger with a 10
Who is Baby Reindeer actress Nava Mau? And is her character Teri a real person?
English singer Tom Grennan promises 'big risks' with daring new album ahead of Australian tour
Nikola Jokic's brother appears to PUNCH a fan in the face after Nuggets' comeback win over Lakers
Sports Emmy Awards will honor 8 individuals as Gold and Silver Circle inductees
TikTok may be banned in the US. Here's what happened when India did it
Miriam: Death Of A Reality Star review
Garland speaks with victims' families as new exhibit highlights the faces of gun violence