Emmerdale continues to explore new emotional depths, and this time it’s newcomer Lewis Barton who takes centre stage. Played by Heartstopper and Celebrity Big Brother star Bradley Riches, Lewis has already stirred up a whirlwind since arriving in the Dales. Now, things are about to get even more personal as Lewis’s past, identity, and future collide in a powerful new storyline.

Having joined the Barton family as Emma Barton’s son, Lewis came to the village in search of answers – especially about the mother he never knew. His arrival brought tension, especially with Moira Dingle, who still carries the secret guilt of being responsible for Emma’s tragic death. But Lewis, curious and composed, hasn’t come to cause drama – at least not yet.

Instead, viewers have seen a softer side of Lewis emerging. His unexpected bond with Nicola King has been one of the show’s quieter but most endearing developments. Their growing friendship, formed while working together at the local café, has offered Lewis a sense of community – something he’s never truly had.

But what about romance?

In a recent Inside Soap interview, Bradley Riches dropped tantalising hints about Lewis’s love life. So far, Lewis has never had a boyfriend, but he knows where his heart lies – and if the right person came along, he wouldn’t say no. He’s not in a rush, though. For Lewis, trust doesn’t come easy. Any romantic connection would be a “slow burn,” Riches says – but one with the potential to bring warmth, vulnerability, and transformation to the character.

Could this mean Emmerdale is preparing to explore a queer romance for Lewis in the near future? Fans certainly hope so, especially with Bradley’s enthusiastic openness to the idea. As he puts it, Lewis doesn’t need a partner – he’s strong on his own – but that doesn’t mean love isn’t on the horizon.

Behind the scenes, Bradley and his co-star Shebz Miah (Kammy Hadiq) are both nominated for Best Newcomer at the Inside Soap Awards, sharing not just a dressing room but a genuine friendship. Their real-life camaraderie echoes the hopeful, feel-good tone that many viewers want to see more of in the show.

As for Lewis’s future? Bradley wants to dive deeper into Lewis’s identity, particularly the challenges and joys of being autistic. Up to now, Lewis has been portrayed as a confident, self-assured individual – but what’s really going on behind that polished exterior? Riches hopes the writers will explore the highs and lows that come with neurodivergence, giving Lewis a more complex emotional arc.

And maybe a home of his own too? With a cheeky laugh, Bradley suggests Lewis is “minted” – so why not buy a house? Or even the entire village? A possible roommate with Ross is even floated as a wildcard.

One thing is clear: Lewis Barton’s story is just getting started – and fans should buckle up. Between unresolved secrets, potential romance, and a journey of self-discovery, Emmerdale is setting the stage for one of its most heartfelt storylines yet.