Emmerdale star Ash Palmisciano on why showing trans love on screen is ‘incredibly important’
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When Ash Palmisciano first joined the cast of the long-running British soap opera Emmerdale in 2018, he knew that portraying Matty Barton, a transgender character, would be significant. However, it wasn’t until years later that he truly realized the impact of his role on the show.
Emmerdale, originally known as Emmerdale Farm when it first aired in 1972, has been a staple on ITV showcasing the lives of a rural community through various storylines. Palmisciano’s character, Matty Barton, has been featured in over 400 episodes, introducing fans to trans-led narratives that explore the challenges and triumphs of being transgender in a small town setting.
Initially intended to appear on the show for only three months, Palmisciano’s portrayal of Matty has evolved into a series regular role, allowing the show to delve into important trans-focused storylines such as top surgery, coming out to family, and the everyday experiences of being transgender. These narratives were groundbreaking at the time, as trans representation on television was still relatively rare.
For Palmisciano, the opportunity to play the first trans character on Emmerdale was a dream come true. Growing up watching soaps on television, he always aspired to be an actor and saw the importance of positive representation in the media. Through Matty’s character, he has been able to share his personal experiences and advocate for greater visibility for trans individuals.
The actor acknowledges that while playing Matty has brought him immense joy and support from fans, it has also exposed him to the harsh reality of transphobia. Dealing with intrusive questions from the public and online trolling has been challenging, but Palmisciano has learned to navigate the negativity and use his platform to advocate for trans rights.
Despite facing backlash, Palmisciano remains committed to telling Matty’s story authentically and hopes that by showcasing a relatable and human character on screen, attitudes towards trans individuals will gradually shift for the better. He emphasizes the importance of representation and believes that showing love and acceptance for trans characters on television is crucial in promoting understanding and inclusivity in society.
As he continues to portray Matty Barton on Emmerdale, Ash Palmisciano remains dedicated to using his role to educate and inspire audiences while working towards a more inclusive and accepting world for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
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