Matthew Wolfenden, well-known for his role as David Metcalfe on the long-running soap Emmerdale, has made a significant career move by joining rival soap Hollyoaks. His departure from Emmerdale comes after 17 years on the show, where he became one of its biggest stars, initially introduced as the long-lost son of its longest-serving character. This move comes as a surprise to fans who had hoped he might return to Emmerdale in the future.

The announcement of Wolfenden's new role has stirred excitement, with insiders noting that this marks an 'exciting chapter' for the actor. Having recently split from his ex-wife and fellow Emmerdale alum Charley Webb in 2023, this new role may represent a fresh start for Wolfenden, who is anticipated to be a strong addition to the Hollyoaks cast. As Hollyoaks continues to evolve, the addition of a seasoned actor like Wolfenden may attract more viewers.

This shift in casting not only highlights the competitive nature of daytime soap operas in the UK but also underscores the personal evolution of actors within the industry. Wolfenden's decision to join Hollyoaks could reflect changes in his career goals and personal life, and it will be interesting to see how his character resonates with fans of the new show, as well as the impact it has on his legacy from his Emmerdale tenure.