Birthmark no barrier for young footballing TV star

Birthmark no barrier for young footballing TV starImage source, Marcus Tate/ Strike Global LimitedImage caption, Ethan joined the cast of CBBC's Jamie Johnson FC for season four of the showByFiona CallowYorkshirePublished18 July 2026The family of a teenage footballer born with a rare skin condition have spoken of their pride after he landed a role in CBBC show Jamie Johnson FC.Ethan, from York, has congenital melanocytic naevus (CMN), a genetic condition that can result in large birthmarks covering up to 80% of the body.However, his parents, Tom and Abbi, said the 14-year-old's birthmark had "never defined him" and that his achievements were a reflection of his "determination and strength".Jodi Whitehouse, from CMN charity Caring Matters Now, said: "Seeing Ethan on screen means so much, not only to our CMN community but to every young person who has ever felt different because of how they look."Ethan's new role saw him join the ranks of aspiring players at fictitious football academy Hawx United for season four of the show.He was selected to feature in the series while he was with York City FC Academy. His audition involved playing a football match against the TV show's existing actors to show off his skills, after which he was cast as a squad member.Executive producer Sam Talbot said Ethan's role on the series reflected "something that is hugely important to us as a show"."We want all children to see themselves represented on screen and to feel that they belong in the stories we tell," he said."Creating a world that reflects the diversity and individuality of our audience will always be at the heart of what we do."Image source, Marcus Tate/ Strike Global LimitedImage caption, Ethan is part of the squad for fictitious football academy Hawx United in the showAlthough a non-speaking role, Ethan still got plenty of screen time and a few close-ups, which, for someone with no acting expe...