In a heartfelt and candid revelation, Charley Webb, the actress best known for her iconic role as Debbie Dingle on Emmerdale, has shared details about a life-changing health diagnosis,

four years after departing the ITV soap. Speaking on the popular Girls Next Door podcast, the 37-year-old star revealed she is currently undergoing assessment for autism and ADHD—

a disclosure that has left fans expressing overwhelming support and admiration for her honesty.

From Debbie Dingle to Real-Life Revelations

Charley Webb’s portrayal of Debbie Dingle from 2002 to 2021 made her one of Emmerdale’s most beloved characters. Over nearly two decades, Debbie’s storylines—ranging from romantic entanglements and family drama to moments of personal growth and redemption—captured the hearts of viewers across the UK. Yet, while Debbie Dingle often faced chaos and conflict on-screen, Charley’s real-life journey has now taken a deeply personal turn, shedding light on challenges she has navigated quietly for years.

On the Girls Next Door podcast, Charley candidly discussed her initial steps in seeking a formal diagnosis for ADHD and potential autism. “I’ve sort of just been diagnosed with that,” she admitted. “I don’t want to confirm it because I’m only at the initial stages. More autism—autistic/ADHD. I’m like, ‘what?’ I’ve just started the process [with doctors].” Her openness about the early stages of assessment highlights the cautious optimism and self-reflection that have accompanied this period of her life.

Understanding Herself Through Diagnosis

Charley explained that the diagnosis, while still in progress, has offered an illuminating lens through which to understand aspects of her personality. “It does make a lot of sense for me for things like people thinking that I’m really cold. I think that could just be a little bit of the autistic side of me if it is true. I’ve got to do way more investigations, but that doesn’t shock me that much. It’s interesting,” she reflected.

For many, her admission will resonate deeply, particularly for those who have long questioned why they experience the world differently. Charley emphasized that understanding oneself is a lifelong process. “It’s so important for people to understand themselves,” she said. “And I think as we’re getting older, it’s becoming more of a thing now.”

The Emmerdale alum also noted how conversations around neurodiversity have evolved over the years. “Years and years ago, nobody talked about it. There was never a discussion about ADHD or any of that sort of stuff, but now it’s like everywhere. I think it is really important to understand that,” she stated, highlighting the cultural shift in awareness and acceptance.

Parenting, Genetics, and Personal Insights

Charley shares three children with her former partner, Matthew Wolfenden, who played David Metcalfe on Emmerdale. As a mother, she is acutely aware of the importance of understanding neurodiverse traits, both for herself and her family. “It’s something that’s within you, isn’t it? It’s something that is genetic. Like ADHD, for instance, one parent would have to have it in order for a child to have it,” she explained.

She also reflected on her own sensory sensitivities, particularly her reaction to noise. “Noise for me—the trigger of noise. I go from nought to 60 in like one second. All those loud noises, if I go somewhere really busy, I find it so overwhelming. So I will be interested to look further into that,” Charley shared. Her transparency offers a rare and candid glimpse into the daily realities that people with ADHD or autism often experience but rarely discuss publicly.

The Medical Perspective

According to the NHS, ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affects how the brain functions compared to most individuals. Common challenges include difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, but the condition varies widely in severity and manifestation. Autism, meanwhile, affects social interaction, communication, and sensory processing, often presenting unique strengths alongside challenges.

Charley’s pursuit of a formal assessment underscores the growing awareness and accessibility of mental health and neurodiversity support. Her willingness to discuss the process publicly provides encouragement to those considering similar evaluations but unsure where to start.

A Personal Journey Beyond the Spotlight

For fans who have followed Charley’s career since her teenage years, this revelation is a reminder that the pressures of a high-profile acting career often coincide with personal struggles. Leaving Emmerdale in 2021 marked the end of a major chapter for Charley, but it also opened the door for reflection and self-discovery. “I’ve just started the process with doctors,” she said, acknowledging the tentative steps she is taking toward understanding herself more fully.

Her journey is a testament to courage and vulnerability. By choosing to speak openly about her experiences with ADHD and potential autism, Charley is breaking down stigma and normalizing conversations about neurodiversity—especially for adults who may have lived decades without a clear understanding of themselves.

Fans and Fellow Stars React

The response from fans and fellow actors has been overwhelmingly supportive. Social media has been flooded with messages of encouragement, admiration, and shared experiences. Many viewers expressed gratitude for Charley’s honesty, praising her for shedding light on neurodiverse experiences in a way that is both relatable and empowering.

Colleagues from her Emmerdale days and beyond have also rallied behind her, offering public statements of support and solidarity. The combination of fan and peer backing underscores the strong community that has always surrounded Charley, reflecting the deep bonds forged in the world of daytime television.

The Broader Impact

Charley Webb’s announcement arrives at a time when public discourse around mental health, ADHD, and autism is gaining momentum. Her story demonstrates the importance of seeking understanding and support, regardless of age or life stage. By sharing her journey, Charley not only validates her own experiences but also provides a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges.

Her honesty emphasizes that diagnoses are not merely labels—they are tools for understanding oneself, improving well-being, and fostering connection with others. Charley’s willingness to speak openly challenges misconceptions, highlights the diversity of neurodiverse experiences, and encourages greater empathy within both the entertainment industry and the wider public.

Looking Ahead

As Charley continues her assessment and explores what ADHD and potential autism may mean for her life, she remains committed to her family, her personal growth, and her career. Fans can expect her to continue sharing insights and reflections, inspiring others with her courage, resilience, and authenticity.

Her revelation also adds a new layer of depth to her legacy as Debbie Dingle. While the character will always be remembered for her dramatic storylines, rebellious spirit, and emotional complexity, Charley’s off-screen journey enriches her public persona, demonstrating that strength often comes in the form of self-awareness and vulnerability.

A Message of Empowerment

In the wake of this announcement, Charley Webb’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-discovery and self-compassion. By embracing her neurodiverse traits and seeking understanding, she encourages others to do the same. Her transparency highlights the evolving conversation around mental health and neurodiversity and exemplifies the courage it takes to confront personal challenges head-on, even under the public eye.

Charley’s message is clear: understanding oneself is not just empowering—it is transformative. In opening up about ADHD and potential autism, she continues to inspire countless fans who see reflections of their own struggles and triumphs in her story. The actress proves that even after leaving the bright lights of Emmerdale, her voice, courage, and authenticity remain a guiding light for those navigating their own paths toward self-understanding.