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.
Jerry Seinfeld says 'extreme left' politically correct mob has killed comedy
President Xi to Make New Year Address to Ring in 2023
Xi Congratulates Bob Dadae on Re
Welcome to stench ground zero: The village where an unspeakable two
Xi Story: The People — Never Absent in Xi's New Year Addresses
Xi Says China, GCC States Natural Partners for Cooperation
Confidence of US consumers continues to decline as Americans worry about the future
Horoscope today: Daily guide to what the stars have in store for YOU
Xi Focus: Xi Meets with HKSAR Chief Executive