Ruth Madeley was born in Westhoughton, near Bolton, and studied English and creative writing at university. She always wanted to work in the entertainment industry and thought that her path lay in scriptwriting. She was born with spina bifida and, as an ambulatory wheelchair user, Ruth just didn’t see herself represented on screen

However, a work experience placement at the BBC led to an unexpected audition. And Ruth fell in love with acting, the moment she joined the set. 

In 2016, she was BAFTA nominated for her leading role in Don’t Take My Baby, a factual drama about a disabled couple’s fight to keep custody of their newborn daughter. And the stage and television roles that followed, include the Russell T Davies drama Years and Years.

Most recently, Ruth is back on our screens in the BBC’s biggest drama, Doctor Who. A show that’s just celebrated its 60th anniversary, with three special shows.

In this conversation, Ruth chats to Jon about her unexpected move into acting, the roles and the writers who've had a big impact on her career, and her own role as a spokesperson for inclusivity.

Related links:

Whizz Kidz

Ruth's documentary for Channel 4: Disability & Abortion

Jack Thorne's Snowcast interview

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