WORDS BY PHILIP BALDWIN

David Ames has played a number of groundbreaking roles in his TV career, challenging stereotypes and raising awareness around issues facing LGBTQIA+ people. He is perhaps best known for playing Dominic Copeland in Holby City (2013 – 2022). In this role he shone a spotlight on domestic violence, which often impacts queer relationships but is rarely spoken about.

As Cater Shepherd in Hollyoaks (2023 – 2024), David explored the dangers of conversion practices, and was rewarded with Rainbow Honours and a British LGBT Awards nominations. He has also had notable stage roles, including Horse Play at Riverside Studios and Steve at Seven Dials Playhouse, both in 2022. Recently, David has been filming for Changing Ends, the semi-autobiographical series about Alan Carr growing up in Northampton. Season three is out in the autumn.

David has often been outspoken about LGBTQIA+ rights and it was great chatting to him. I began by asking him about his Pride highlight of 2025.

I love the vigil on the Monday at the end of Manchester Pride, to honour those people who we’ve lost due to HIV/AIDS, or through hate crimes. It’s been particularly poignant recently for our trans siblings who have been under constant attack, both physically and politically. By the end of the weekend everyone is exhausted and emotional. We gather together and there is such a feeling of community spirit. I was at Brighton Pride this year, which was wonderful. At Brighton Pride you see a lot of families and people celebrating in Preston Park. London Pride was also magnificent. I enjoyed them all. The community spirit is high at the moment. It feels that – particularly watching what is happening in the United States – we are pulling together and closing ranks. This is very heartening considering everything that is going on in the world.