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.
China to revive outbound group travel to more countries
China's inbound, outbound tourism sees steady recovery
King Charles and Queen Camilla could miss super
Hometown of Laura Ingalls Wilder set for a growth spurt
HKSAR gov't welcomes policy of visa
Washington state trooper fatally shoots a man during a freeway altercation, police say
China to establish national park at Qinghai Lake
Warner holds out IPL hot shot Fraser
Tyler Alexander takes perfect game into eighth inning as Rays beat Blue Jays 4
Germany and Real Madrid great Toni Kroos to retire after Euro 2024
Luzardo leads Marlins to third consecutive shutout win, 8