Riley Carter Millington became the first transgender man to play a transgender character in a UK soap in 2015.
His character Kyle Slater in EastEnders has won acclaim from fans and critics alike, especially scenes where he was reunited with on-screen mum Alison, played by Denise Welch.
But recently, Riley opened up about the way he told his parents the truth about how he was feeling and what he was going through.
"I tried to drop hints by playing Beyonce’s If I Were A Boy from my bedroom," Riley told Radio Times magazine.
"Then I was in a clothes shop with my mum and was buying a man’s t-shirt and I just decided to come out with it then and there."
Riley explained that his family have been very supportive during his transition process, although they were surprised by his admission.
However, he personally felt that it was “slow and frustrating”, but despite this, Riley revealed it was definitely worth it and is looking forward to what his role in EastEnders has to bring.
Revealing that some viewers confuse gender change with sexuality, he explained that some are asking for Kyle to get together with Ben Mitchell.
“But Kyle’s not gay. So it would be interesting to see him dating girls. Some will accept him, and some won’t,” Riley added.
On-screen viewers have seen Riley’s character Kyle battle with others acceptance of the fact he is transgender.
At the time of Riley’s casting, then executive procuder Dominic Treadwell-Collins said: "In Riley, we have found not just a talented actor but also an inspirational young man whose warmth immediately comes through the screen.”
And we definitely agree! We’ve loved seeing Kyle’s story develop since his arrival on Albert Square and can’t wait to see what else is in store for the character.
Riley has also been nominated for the Best Soap Newcomer for the TV Choice Awards 2016! Congratulations!
You can vote for him here.
Who would you like to see Kyle date on EastEnders?
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