Emmerdale star Bradley Riches has exchanged vows with his artist fiancé, Scott Johnson, in a deeply personal and intimate wedding ceremony held in Maidenhead. The joyous occasion unfolded on Wednesday, merely days after the actor shared the devastating news of his grandmother's passing.
A Bittersweet Celebration
The 24-year-old actor, celebrated for his role as Lewis Barton on the enduring ITV soap opera, announced his marriage through a heartfelt Instagram post. The couple's special day was graced by a gathering of close friends, including notable personalities from the entertainment world such as former Celebrity Big Brother housemates David Potts and ZeZe Millz.
Emotional Tributes and Joyous Moments
In the lead-up to the wedding, Bradley Riches posted an emotional tribute to his late grandmother on social media. He shared a nostalgic childhood photograph alongside a poignant message, expressing his profound grief. "Never did I think I would be saying goodbye to my Gt. Nanny just days before my wedding," he wrote. "Before she passed, she told me she’d be with me on my big day… and I know she will be."
He further revealed his grandmother's unconditional love and support for his relationship with Scott, adding, "She loved Scott so much- never questioned us, just loved us fully." Despite this profound loss, the wedding day itself was filled with happiness and celebration.
Stylish Ceremony and Star-Studded Plans
Photographs from the ceremony, shared online, captured the newlyweds sharing a kiss and enjoying their first dance. Bradley Riches chose a sophisticated brown three-piece suit for the occasion, while Scott Johnson complemented him in a stylish beige ensemble. Both men adorned matching carnations in their buttonholes, symbolising their union.
The actor had previously hinted that the wedding would be a star-studded affair, with an extensive guest list including fellow celebrities from shows like Big Brother, Love Island, and other entertainment circles. Names mentioned included Colson Smith, Nikita Kuzmin, Sharon Osbourne, and Arlene Phillips, among others.
From Proposal to Marriage
The journey to the altar began with a romantic proposal in Sorrento, Italy, at the end of the previous year. Bradley had enthusiastically shared a video of the moment, declaring, "2020 was my favourite yet, but... 2026 is gonna be even better as I get to marry my best friend."
Representation and Advocacy
Bradley Riches, who is autistic, has been vocal about the importance of his role on Emmerdale in representing the neurodivergent community. Following his debut episode in 2024, he expressed gratitude to the scriptwriters for crafting an authentic portrayal of his character's experiences.
"I’m so deeply grateful for the scriptwriters for crafting such a moving and authentic scene- showing Lewis overwhelmed by work in a way that felt so real to me and many others," he stated. He emphasised the significance of feeling seen and understood, highlighting the supportive dynamic with his on-screen mother, Nicola.
This wedding marks a significant personal milestone for Bradley Riches, blending profound personal loss with the celebration of new beginnings alongside his partner, Scott Johnson.
