Honouring His Father’s Strength

Emmerdale’s James Moore is preparing for an emotional and inspiring climb, taking on the equivalent height of Ben Nevis to honour his late father, Stephen, who passed away from myeloma, an incurable form of blood cancer.

The actor, best known as Ryan Stocks, first appeared in Emmerdale in 2018 as Charity Dingle’s long-lost son, born after her traumatic experience with corrupt police officer Mark Bails. Since then, Ryan has become a much-loved character, tackling hard-hitting storylines and finding love with Gail Loman before their recent split.

Away from the cameras, James has channelled his grief into action. On October 25, he and a group of family and friends will climb an indoor wall totalling 1,345 metres, the equivalent of Ben Nevis’s height, all in aid of Myeloma UK.

A Tribute to Stephen Moore

James’s father, Stephen, was diagnosed with myeloma in 2021 at age 65 after experiencing severe fatigue and back pain. Despite treatment, his health declined, and he passed away four years later. Reflecting on his father’s life, James described him as “an incredibly calming presence” who always put others before himself.

“My dad was an amazing father to three sons, a loving husband, and a doting grandfather,” James said. “Even when he was ill, he had this mentality of ‘what will be, will be’ and worried more about the people around him than himself.”

On what would have been Stephen’s 70th birthday, James made a donation to Myeloma UK but soon decided he wanted to do more. While many people take part in charity runs or walks, James—who has cerebral palsy—found a unique way to make a difference through his growing passion for bouldering.

Turning Grief Into Purpose

Bouldering, James explained, became a source of focus and therapy after his father’s death. The physical challenge requires concentration, strategy, and resilience—qualities that reflect his father’s outlook on life.

“You need to concentrate, it’s mentally engaging, and it’s something I’m able to do,” he said. “For me, it’s incredibly important to raise awareness. I want to raise money for research and for resources to help other families going through this.”

His indoor climb will see a small group of seven or eight participants working together to complete the equivalent of Britain’s highest mountain in a single day. Supporters are invited to attend and cheer them on as they raise vital funds and awareness for Myeloma UK, which supports over 33,000 people in the UK living with the condition.

A Mission for Hope

James’s goal is to fund research that could one day turn myeloma from incurable to curable—and to remind others that it’s possible to find strength through loss.

“What I’d really love to see is a cure,” James added. “It’s incredibly important to keep raising awareness so more people can get the help they need.”

Through courage, compassion, and community, the Emmerdale star is continuing his father’s legacy in the most meaningful way possible.