In a year marked by heartbreak and resilience, Emmerdale’s James Moore has turned personal tragedy into a profoundly moving act of love and remembrance. The actor, beloved for his portrayal of Ryan Stocks

, recently embarked on a grueling physical challenge to honor his late father, Steven Moore, who sadly passed away from multiple myeloma, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer,

at the age of 69. What began as a personal tribute quickly became an inspiring community effort, demonstrating both James’ inner strength and his unwavering devotion to family.

A Journey of Love and Loss

For James, the loss of his dad this past June was more than a family tragedy — it was a life-altering moment. Reflecting on Steven’s passing, Moore shared that his father had always been a steadfast supporter of him, both personally and professionally. From nurturing James’ artistic ambitions to helping him navigate life with cerebral palsy, Steven had been a constant source of guidance and love. “He was incredibly supportive,” James said, recalling his father’s encouragement during moments of self-doubt. “He always removed barriers, encouraged me to try new things, and was just such a kind, calming presence in our lives.”

Motivated by this deep connection, James sought a way to honor his father’s memory in a manner that would create awareness around multiple myeloma while also challenging himself physically and emotionally. The solution? Climbing the height of Ben Nevis — the tallest mountain in the UK — in a single day.

An Emotional Challenge

The climb wasn’t undertaken alone. James assembled a team of family, friends, and even his Emmerdale co-star Ash Pomiano, who plays Mattie Barton, to join him in the daunting task. Together, they scaled an impressive 1,345 meters at a climbing center in Cheltenham, braving both physical exhaustion and unforeseen obstacles. A power cut at the center threatened to derail their plans, forcing the team to improvise with a lamp-lit smaller wall until the main climbing surface could be accessed.

Adding to the difficulty, James was recovering from a recent hip injury, making every ascent a test of both endurance and determination. Yet, despite the physical toll, James persevered, completing the final climb himself — an emotional pinnacle in more ways than one. “There were a lot of tears,” he admitted. “Thinking about Dad, the family being there, it was overwhelming, but also incredibly rewarding.”

Turning Grief Into Action

Beyond the personal challenge, the climb was a fundraiser for Myeloma UK, an organization supporting research and patients affected by the disease. James explained the motivation behind the effort: “It would have been his 70th birthday in August. I donated to the charity, but I thought there was probably more I could do. Climbing is something I’ve really gotten into, so it felt like a natural way to challenge myself and honor Dad’s memory.”

The communal aspect of the event was deeply significant for James. Family members, friends, and colleagues participated, transforming what could have been a solitary act of grief into a shared celebration of life and legacy. The challenge underscored the sense of unity and love that Steven Moore had instilled in those around him — a reminder that even in loss, community can provide solace.

A Wedding Year Marked by Emotion

The tribute also comes in a year of personal milestones for James, as he and his wife Sophie recently celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Married in a stunning autumn ceremony last November, the couple has navigated the highs of newlywed bliss alongside the lows of bereavement. Sophie reflected on the past year: “The actual married life has been amazing. He is just my best friend. It’s just life with my best friend.”

James spoke warmly of his wife’s support: “She’s been incredibly supportive of everything, helping me through all of this. I couldn’t have done it without her.” The couple has yet to go on their honeymoon, but plans are underway for a Disney World trip, alongside building a home and starting a family in the coming year.

Looking back on their wedding day, James shared a particularly poignant memory: twenty quiet minutes in a camper van with Sophie, away from the bustle of the celebrations. “It was lovely,” he recalled. “You don’t get much time alone on your wedding day, and it was just us — a perfect moment of peace amidst everything.” Sophie’s highlight was walking down the aisle, surrounded by both her family and James’ parents and brother. The ceremony, marked by love and togetherness, was a bittersweet occasion given the loss they would soon endure.

Life Lessons and Legacy

James Moore’s tribute is more than a climb; it is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of turning grief into action. His father’s influence continues to shape him, guiding both his personal and professional life. The climb, which required 100 ascents completed in three and a half hours, became both a literal and symbolic journey — ascending from sorrow toward strength and remembrance.

James’ story resonates deeply because it reminds us that grief, while profoundly painful, can inspire acts of extraordinary courage and connection. From overcoming physical challenges to raising vital awareness about multiple myeloma, James’ tribute encapsulates the enduring impact of love, family, and community support.

Looking Ahead: James’ Continued Journey

While the past year has been challenging, James shows no signs of slowing down professionally. He teased upcoming storylines in Emmerdale, promising an active year ahead, and reaffirmed his commitment to the show he has called home for nearly eight years. “I’m still really enjoying it and happy to be there,” he said.

Meanwhile, his personal life continues to flourish alongside Sophie, as they plan for a future full of hope, family, and shared dreams. The climb in honor of Steven Moore will remain a defining moment — not just a tribute to a beloved father, but a powerful reminder that love and courage can endure even in the face of profound loss.

Final Thoughts

James Moore’s emotional journey embodies the intersection of heartbreak, resilience, and legacy. By channeling grief into a physically demanding and deeply meaningful tribute, he has honored his father’s memory while inspiring fans and raising awareness for a crucial cause. In every climb, every tear, and every word of reflection, James reminds us that even in the shadow of loss, the human spirit can shine with remarkable strength and compassion.

His story is a testament to the enduring bond between parent and child, the healing power of community, and the courage it takes to turn sorrow into action. For James Moore, the climb was more than a challenge — it was a journey of love, remembrance, and hope that will leave anyone who hears it moved to tears.