In a plot twist worthy of the Dales itself, former Emmerdale star James Moore has publicly revealed the surprising reason he left the iconic Yorkshire soap – to launch his own legal cannabis business.
The actor, who won the hearts of the nation as Ryan Stocks, has traded the fictional village for the green rush, becoming a champion for the UK's burgeoning medicinal cannabis industry.
From Soap Opera Salaries to Green Entrepreneurship
Moore didn't hold back when discussing his financial motivations for the career change. He candidly stated that his salary on the popular ITV programme was "not a lot", a key factor in his decision to seek greener pastures – quite literally.
He contrasted his previous earnings with his new venture's potential, noting the significant investment required to get his business off the ground, an amount that far exceeded his annual income from acting.
More Than Money: A Mission for Medicinal Use
However, Moore's new path is driven by more than just profit. The actor is a passionate advocate for the medicinal benefits of cannabis, particularly for individuals living with disabilities and chronic pain.
Having cerebral palsy himself, Moore speaks with personal conviction. "I'm not just selling a product; I'm promoting a form of relief that is still misunderstood and often inaccessible in this country," he explained. His mission is to help destigmatise the plant and educate the public on its therapeutic applications beyond recreational use.
His business focuses on the legal side of the industry, dealing with CBD and other products that comply with current UK regulations.
A New Chapter Beyond the Dales
Since his departure from Emmerdale, Moore has embraced his role as an entrepreneur and activist. He remains proud of his time on the show and his groundbreaking role as a disabled actor in a major soap, but he is clearly energised by the challenges and opportunities his new business provides.
His story is a testament to the evolving career paths of television personalities and a bold conversation starter about the legal cannabis market in the UK.
