Get the latest OK! breaking news on WhatsAppOur community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More infoJoin us on WhatsApp Emmerdale’s newest resident has been stirring up quite the drama. As we get accustomed to the fresh face of Rich Thompson in the village, it’s time to familiarise ourselves with Joshua John – the actor breathing life into this character. Rich was introduced as a friend of Jacob Gallagher’s (Joe-Warren Plant) but instantly landed his mate in hot water with his mum Leyla Harding (Roxy Shahidi). When Jacob was found with drugs in his coat pocket, Leyla was left furious before discovering they belonged to trainee-doctor Rich. The charming new addition also set his sights on Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper), prompting speculation among Emmerdale fans that the on-screen pair might find themselves ‘married in months’.
Rich was introduced as a friend of Jacob’s, but he has since caused a stir in Emmerdale
(Image: ITV)
However, following the disastrous limo crash last week, Rich finds himself at the centre of the drama, where he is accused of spiking Noah Dingle (Jack Downham). In forthcoming scenes, Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins) and Belle interrogate Rich on his drug use and accuse him of spiking Noah, which sparked the limo to crash and caused the death of Leyla, Amy Barton (Natalie Ann Jamieson), and Suzy Merton (Martelle Edinborough), reports Leeds Live. Away from the ITV soap, the role of Rich is a big break for upcoming actor Joshua John. On stage, Joshua has performed in productions of Romeo and Juliet and The Merchant of Venice, among other projects. He also appeared in the music video for Leon Bridges’ song ‘Why Don’t You Touch Me’, as listed on IMDb.
Joshua John appearing as Rich in Emmerdale
Away from the spotlight Joshua’s Instagram feed showcases his adventures in Montenegro and an insider’s glance at the renowned Globe theatre, taken during his time starring in Romeo and Juliet. Additionally, he provides a small but intriguing view into his spell at Emmerdale. He shared photographs from the soap’s studio in Leeds, adding: “I had way too much fun working on this.” Revolution Talent, who represent the aspiring addition to Emmerdale, posted about Joshua John’s character on Instagram. They said: “Joshua John plays Rich in Emmerdale, a plucky and confident student doctor, friends with Emmerdale’s Jacob Gallagher.” Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV and ITVX