Emmerdale's first trans star Ash Palmisciano 'My girlfriend is such a support'

Ash Palmisciano’s character Matty Barton is going through one of the toughest times in his life after being held in remand after accidentally stabbing Samson Dingle in Emmerdale.

With Samson, and his evil mate Josh, spinning lies about Matty - he’s found himself under arrest and in terrible danger. The storyline is so gritty that Ash has found himself watching it at home with his girlfriend, Shea Rowan, who he names as his biggest support.

“I hate watching myself on TV, I can’t stand it,” admits Ash during an exclusive interview with OK!. “But we started watching the scenes where Matty goes to prison. She’s really proud, and I’m very lucky to have her. She’s very level-headed and chilled-out.”

Ash Palmisciano

Ash Palmisciano and Shea Rowan

“Shea was a bit annoyed that I got married in the show,” laughs Ash. “She helps me learn my lines and really helps me with the wedding stuff. We’re good mates with Natalie [Ann Jamieson] and her partner too - we live quite close to each other so we all hang out together.”

After panicking about being convicted, Matty attempted to flee the village but was quickly found and put under arrest. Going to prison is a tough change for the transgender character.

“Most guys, if they’re honest, wouldn’t want to go to prison. But for Matty, there’s extra fear. He’s transitioned now, he’s got his gender recognition certificate, he’s just living as a guy and getting on with life. But now, he’s entered a male prison, a toxic, masculine arena and Matty’s been advised not to say that he’s trans.”

Emmerdale's Amy Wyatt and Matty Barton

Seven years agoo, Ash was first offered the role of Matty Barton. Ash at the time was liaising on a storyline where they were planning on bringing in a trans character - he was asked to audition, and got the part.

As a trans actor Matty knew he would be making history, but there was still a lot for Ash to consider.

“I didn’t know at first whether I wanted to put myself out there to tell this story,” admits Ash. “I had lived as Ash for quite a long time, and I was secure in myself and was really well-supported. I knew putting myself out there was going to open up negativity and targeted transphobia, but I don’t regret it, and I think the kid in me would be really proud.”

Matty Barton and cellmate Les

“What I hoped for is that we could tell the story of an all-rounded character that happened to be trans," adds Ash. "He could still fall in love, have a family, a career - and the fact that has come true is incredible.”