Emmerdale star Emile John discusses his real-life experiences of racism
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Emmerdale actor Emile John has opened up about his experiences of racism, including "sly quips and digs" made about his race.
Emile plays solicitor Ethan Anderson on the soap, who was attacked in a racist hate crime by former client Jordan Greenlow after withdrawing his legal representation. Jordan had previously been arrested following a racist attack on Billy.
Emile recently visited Lorraine to reflect on his character's current storyline, society's approach to tackling racism, and the power of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Related: Emmerdale star Emile John discusses future of Ethan and Marcus relationship
"At school, I had sort of sly quips and digs with regards to being Black, and you know, at the time people might think that was funny, that was a joke. But with the Black Lives movement, I just feel like... there's more license to call people out," he said.
"Whereas before, I might've internalised certain digs and racial slurs, and that would lead to some self-deprecation and self-hatred, which isn't good for anyone.
"I just feel like things probably haven't changed fully, but there's progress – and there's definitely license to call out that kind of behaviour."
Related: Emmerdale star Emile John discusses possible backlash for Ethan in new storyline
Emile added that "some of the lines and dialogue that's used, it's kind of vile, it's uncomfortable to hear," adding: "It kind of fueled my responses in that regard. My responses were true."
The most recent development in Ethan's storyline saw evil Jordan being taken away in handcuffs by police officers after the attack.
Emile previously said that the racist attack will have an impact on Ethan going forward, adding that the "brave" storyline matters because it's "important to show that these people like Jordan do exist in the world".
For more information on how you can support Black Lives Matter, please visit its official website or donate here. Readers can also donate to the UK anti-discrimination group Stand Up To Racism, and the Unite Families & Friends Campaign, which supports those affected by deaths in police, prison and psychiatric custody.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7.30pm on ITV and streams on the ITV Hub.
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