RHLSTP with Richard Herring RHLSTP 599 - Adam Pearson
Feb 18, 2026
Adam Pearson, actor, writer and disability advocate known for film roles and work on neurofibromatosis. He talks antiques hunting during COVID. He explains neurofibromatosis and growing up with an identical twin who experienced it differently. He recalls acting on Under the Skin and plans to adapt The Elephant Man for stage and screen. He discusses advocacy, representation, faith and some wild emergency questions.
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Neurofibromatosis Explained Simply
- Adam explains neurofibromatosis as a genetic condition causing benign tumours on nerves and affecting about one in 2,300 births.
- He clarifies 50% of cases are hereditary and 50% are spontaneous mutations, illustrating genetic unpredictability.
Early-Onset Disability Shapes Identity
- Adam notes that developing a disability early meant he never had to reframe his identity later in life.
- He argues that acquiring a disability in adulthood often requires a harder psychological adjustment than congenital conditions.
Have Respectful Conversations About Disability
- Do engage in conversations about disability with respect and a clear head to make society fairer and more equal.
- Adam argues disabled people can lead those conversations to educate others and change social norms effectively.