I'm so excited to fly in Sunderland Empire's panto, says Heartstopper and Emmerdale star
Heartstopper and Emmerdale star Bradley Riches is set to soar in this year’s Sunderland Empire panto.
It’s been announced that Bradley will star as Peter in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook when the swashbuckling adventure sprinkles some festive magic from Friday 11 December 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027.
Bradley is an award-winning autistic actor best known for his roles currently in the Yorkshire Dales as Lewis Barton in Emmerdale and as James McEwan in Netflix’s Heartstopper.
In 2024, he became a favourite on Celebrity Big Brother UK.
Bradley is also a bestselling author of Autistically Me and A Different Kind of Superpower, championing autistic voices and inclusive storytelling.
Across TikTok and Instagram, he connects with over 2 million followers, using his platform to promote visibility, positivity, and representation.
Bradley said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be returning to panto and especially to be playing Peter Pan again- it’s such an iconic and magical role.
“There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live audience at Christmas, and I can’t wait to be at the Sunderland Empire. It’s going to be a brilliant festive season - I’m so excited to get flying!”
Martin Dodd, Producer for UK Productions, said: "We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing Bradley Riches to Wearside this Christmas to lead the adventure at the magnificent Sunderland Empire.
“Audiences will know and love him from Emmerdale and Heartstopper, Bradley brings the courage, charm and sparkle needed to fly high as Peter Pan in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook. Sunderland you are in for a swashbuckling treat — packed with thrills, laughter and a sprinkle of fairy dust. Tickets are flying away, so hook yours now and join us for the must-see adventure!”
Bradley will of course be joined by Wearside’s most iconic panto duo, Miss Rory and Tom Whalley, both back by popular demand. The pair will return to Sunderland Empire’s stage for a seventh year running.
For this year’s panto, we can look forward to gravity-defying flying scenes, sword fights and special effects.
The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook is at Sunderland Empire from Friday 11 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027. Tickets at ATGTickets.com/Sunderland*