Ryan Hawley has received shocking homophobic abuse over Robert and Aaron
"It was quite upsetting that people felt that way," the popular actor explains.
Emmerdale star Ryan Hawley has revealed that he's received homophobic abuse over his role as Robert Sugden.
The actor, who is straight in real life, was shocked to recently be targeted with verbal abuse over Robert's on-screen relationship with Aaron Livesy (Danny Miller).
Reflecting on the experience, which he stressed was a one-off, Hawley explained: "Unfortunately there was an incident where there were a few people who were a bit kind of homophobic towards me.
"I'm not gay in real life [and] it wasn't really an attack on me as a person, but it was quite upsetting that people felt that way."
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Robert goads Andy about Chrissie
© ITV
He continued: "It was extremely disappointing. I don't really want to dwell on it, because I don't want to dwell on negativity and that's really what it is.
"It's an isolated incident - it's been and gone."
Robert and Aaron's relationship has proved to be a huge success with many fans of the ITV soap, who affectionately call the pair 'Robron'.
Viewers have seen Robert show loyal support to Aaron following the revelation that the troubled mechanic was sexually abused by his father Gordon as a child. This continues next week when Gordon finally stands trial for his evil crimes.
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Aaron takes to the stand
© ITV
Admitting that fans are now seeing a new side of Robert, Hawley said: "The majority in recent weeks have been a bit warmer towards me and have said the way Robert's being supportive of Aaron is a lot more empathetic. Whereas before people hissed at me and said: 'Oh, you're nasty you are'.
"We hear through people on social media and fans we speak to, who are so happy to meet both parts of 'Robron'. They're such big fans of the relationship, so that's quite telling.
"Our show's on six times a week and people tune in and watch it. They want to get some kind of escapism as they see people go through different situations and relate to it, because everyone goes through difficult situations in life.
"Danny's performances have been incredible and you'll see more in coming weeks I'm sure. I feel very fortunate to be part of that."