Emmerdale star Joshua Richards on Bear’s shocking descent into modern slavery – and past role exploring “horrifying” subject matter

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Joshua Richards has recently discussed his Emmerdale character Bear Wolf’s surprising new plot development for the first time.

Bear has been missing for months, and while his son, Paddy Dingle, believed he was visiting a friend in Ireland, it’s now revealed that Bear was actually a victim of modern slavery and has been manipulated against his will.

He explained that reaching a certain age can sometimes lead to feelings of being unwanted or unnecessary. But if someone can help you realize your value – that you still have something to offer – it can be incredibly empowering. He stressed the importance of recognizing that value, calling it your ‘currency’ in life.

It’s surprising how easily you can find yourself in unexpected situations, often without realizing how it happened. It’s really interesting to think about how these things unfold.

The actor said Bear’s experience was unbelievably frightening – one of the worst things imaginable.

There’s a hidden side to life where dangerous people – gangs and criminals – are always looking to take advantage of others. He pointed out that, often, the largest cost for any project, like a home renovation, isn’t the materials, but the cost of the labor involved.

When criminal groups eliminate labor costs, they can generate huge profits by exploiting people and causing widespread suffering.

Richards went on to share how he prepared for such a harrowing storyline.

As a film buff, I always find it fascinating to hear how actors approach their roles. This particular actor told me he’s a bit old-school – he simply reads the script and focuses on the text. He’s not a fan of ‘method acting,’ you know, where actors really try to become the character by isolating themselves and living like them. He said he never did any of that – no locking himself away in a tent or disappearing to the countryside to ‘find’ the character. He just focuses on understanding the script and playing the part honestly.

I didn’t do any specific preparation; I simply read the script and used my empathy to understand the characters and their real-life situations. The insightful research and writing of the drama’s creators were the foundation for my understanding.

The actor, who began playing Paddy’s father on Emmerdale in 2019, was well-prepared for the storyline because he had previously acted in a role dealing with modern slavery.

I was lucky enough in 2007 to perform in a play called ‘Sold’ by John Godber and Jane Thornton from Hull Truck Theatre Company. It dealt with the issue of modern slavery.

I first explored this topic 18 years ago, both in Hull and at Liverpool University. It’s been on my radar for a long time, even before I worked on that particular play.

It’s deeply disturbing to realize that around 50 million people are currently trapped in modern slavery – a truly awful situation.

When asked about the episode focusing on the events surrounding Bear’s attack, actor Richards explained that it will be a dedicated episode revealing exactly what happened to him after he drove away in his car.

A few weeks after he left, we confirmed he still had his car, meaning he hadn’t gone to Ireland with his friend Gnasher as we’d thought. We’re now going to investigate exactly what really happened to him.

The episode was shot in reverse order. After producers confirmed Richards’ return to the show, they gave him a particular task to complete during his break.

Clare Golds, the makeup artist, told me, ‘No matter what, don’t get a haircut and don’t shave your beard – let yourself look a bit wild!’ So, while I was away, I let my appearance go and grew out a scruffy look.

We first meet Bear when he’s at his lowest point – dirty, scruffy, and neglected. Gradually, we see him improve.

Although soap operas have touched on modern slavery before, this is the first time the issue will be a major storyline. It’s particularly impactful because it focuses on a character like Bear, who usually sees himself as self-reliant and able to protect himself, according to Richards.

I found the situation intriguing, especially knowing Bear has been struggling with depression and feeling lost. Seeing him so vulnerable – a powerful man being taken advantage of – could be a significant development.

We often celebrate low prices when getting our cars washed, but rarely think about the people actually doing the work. It’s easy to overlook everything that goes into providing that ‘cheap’ service.

It could be anyone – the people helping with your garden, repairing your driveway, or even working on your roof. You just don’t know who it is. There are genuine, hardworking people – builders, farmers, and others – doing these jobs, he explained.

How does Richards think the viewers will react to the revelations about Bear?

“They’ll be furious!”

People often stop me to ask how Bear is doing, saying they’re worried about him. It’s really nice to see that viewers of the show genuinely care about the characters.

Emmerdale is collaborating with the Salvation Army to depict a sensitive storyline involving the character Bear, and also to realistically portray the grooming of young characters April and Dylan.

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1. Stream on ITVX.

As a total TV buff, I just wanted to let you know about the TopMob app – it’s great for finding things to watch! I’ve added Emmerdale to my watchlist there, and you can too. Download it now to get daily recommendations and stay up-to-date with all things TV.

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2025-11-08 04:05