When Ash Palmisciano agreed to play Emmerdale’s first trans character Matty Barton, he knew he risked being trolled. But he felt determined as a transgender man to represent the trans community on TV. Six years on – as barista Matty waits behind bars after accidentally stabbing Samson Dingle during a transphobic row – Ash has spoken for the first time about the abuse he has suffered as a result.
But he refuses to let insults put him off the role he loves, adding: “I feel proud to be trans, and to play Emmerdale ’s first ever trans character.” Ash, 34, explains: “Like Matty, I’ve experienced trolling. I’ve heard horrific language and had disturbing threats.
"But actually when I joined Emmerdale, I was shocked by how many people wanted to talk and share their own experiences. I keep one letter in my bag that’s so touching about the difference the character made to someone, and to their family. “When I was growing up there was nobody on TV I could relate to so I hope I can, in a small way, show you can grow up and have a good job, a lovely family and a great relationship.
” Ash also learned some coping strategies from his mum Michelle, who died two years aged 60 after battling rheumatoid arthritis for years. He says: “My mum was very brave. I saw her put on a smile every day, whatever was going on.
“That really helped. It taught me about resilience, knowing that when you’re coming from a good place and you want everyone to be accepted and loved, it.
