Why did Matthew Wolfenden leave Emmerdale for Hollyoaks?

Matthew Wolfenden left Emmerdale after his contract ended and he accepted a lead role in a West End musical, a decision influenced by a strict cast rule preventing holiday time off.

Will Matthew Wolfenden's character return to Emmerdale?

Matthew Wolfenden's character, David Metcalfe, was not killed off, meaning the door was left open for a potential return, though his new role in Hollyoaks makes this less likely.

What other changes are happening at ITV soaps?

There are reports of potential cast reductions and fewer scenes per episode for both Emmerdale and Coronation Street as part of ITV's budget cuts.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Emmerdale Star's Shock Move to Rival Soap

Emmerdale Star's Shock Move to Rival Soap

11 Feb

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Summary

Matthew Wolfenden joins rival soap Hollyoaks after 17 years on Emmerdale.
The actor left Emmerdale due to a strict cast rule regarding time off.
His character was not killed off, leaving the door open for a potential return.

Emmerdale Star's Shock Move to Rival Soap

Matthew Wolfenden, renowned for his 17-year tenure as David Metcalfe on Emmerdale, has embarked on an unexpected career turn by joining the rival daytime soap Hollyoaks. This decision comes three years after his departure from the Leeds-based serial drama.

Wolfenden's exit from Emmerdale in late 2023 was prompted by his commitment to the lead role in 'Elf the Musical' in London's West End. A strict cast rule preventing time off during the festive period influenced his choice not to renew his Emmerdale contract.

Although his on-screen departure in April 2024 did not involve his character's death, leaving the door ajar for a potential return, his new role in Hollyoaks makes such a comeback less likely. Wolfenden described the decision to leave a long-term, well-paid job for a limited run show as a bold move, undertaken with the understanding that the door for his character, David, would remain open.