Former Emmerdale actress Charley Webb has candidly discussed her diagnoses of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism, and how they affect her daily life and parenting. Webb received the diagnoses towards the end of 2025, which she says have helped her understand her heightened sensitivity to noise.
Noise Sensitivity and Parenting Challenges
Appearing on Luke Hamnett's podcast Live, Laugh, Luke, Webb explained that noise is her biggest trigger, especially when caring for her three sons. "Sometimes when I get back and I've been away from them, I forget how loud they are. And it takes me so long to readjust. I'm really overstimulated cuz they're just so loud," she said, adding, "I can't bear it."
Webb described her hands-off parenting style as "character building" for her children. She noted that they don't complain if they aren't fed, and she tells them to "get your takeaway. I've got to go... order what you want, I'm out."
Custody Arrangement and Personal Growth
Webb and her ex-partner Matthew Wolfenden operate a week-on, week-off custody arrangement. Initially difficult, she now appreciates the setup: "I think I've got used to it now. At first it was really hard. For 50% of the time I was like 'Where are my children'? But now I'm living my best life ...I'm so much better when I've had a week off from them. I can be a really good mum because I've had a break."
She dismisses criticism from social media users who suggest she should spend more time with her sons. "I have a week off and I'm going to do what I want. If I want to go to Australia, I am going," she stated.
Understanding Her Neurodiversity
Webb reflected on her diagnoses, noting that her autism traits are more prominent than ADHD. "I think my autism is definitely stronger than the ADHD side. I think it's definitely more autism. But then even that I think is mild and I think everyone has this idea of autism like it's just one thing and it's really not," she explained.
No Return to Emmerdale
Despite being best known as Debbie Dingle, Webb confirmed she has no plans to return to the soap. "There's no plans for me to go back, just because I think it wouldn't be the right time and having three kids is a lot and also working there is a lot," she said. The character Debbie last appeared after moving to Australia, leaving her daughter Sarah to learn of the move via a phone call.
Upcoming TV Drama
Webb will appear in a six-part ITV drama titled Adultery, written by Danny Brocklehurst. The series focuses on two single parents whose illicit affair threatens their families. Webb praised the cast, including Dominic Cooper and Shelley Conn, calling it "one of those things that people binge."
