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.
Rangers are undefeated at .500 to keep World Series champs from a losing record with Bochy
More Women Elected to Sit as NPC Deputies
Development of Animation Industry Injects Vitality to Old Village in S China's Haikou
Farmers in NW China's Qinghai Celebrate Start of Spring Farming
Ricky Stenhouse punching Kyle Busch could lead to suspension
People Greet Longtaitou Day Across China
Across China: Competition in SW China's Chongqing Inspires Students to Innovate, Start businesses
Tibetan New Year Marked with Joy and Hope
Ship that caused Baltimore bridge collapse has been refloated
People on Their Way for Family Reunions During Spring Festival Travel Rush
‘The Blue Angels,’ filmed for IMAX, puts viewers in the ‘box’ with the elite flying squad
Farmers in Hangzhou Start Harvesting Longjing Tea Leaves Ahead of Qingming Festival