Hollyoaks star Matthew James Bailey is set to join EastEnders as part of a major storyline unfolding this summer. The actor, known for playing Ethan Williams on the Channel 4 soap from 2021 to 2024, will arrive in Walford as newcomer DC Craig Ingram.
DC Craig's role in Walford
DC Craig is a younger colleague of Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) and is brought in to take over the detective's workload. Viewers know that Denise Fox (Diane Parish) was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), an aggressive blood cancer requiring urgent treatment. Jack has been by Denise's side since her diagnosis, visiting the hospital regularly, but his boss suspects he's struggling to balance work and supporting Denise, leading to Craig's introduction.
Given Albert Square's history as a crime hub since 1985, Craig quickly becomes involved in a nearby case. Matthew has already started filming, and his scenes will air this summer.
Matthew's reaction to joining EastEnders
'Joining EastEnders has been a dream come true,' Matthew said. 'From it being the soundtrack to my childhood, always on in the background at home, to gathering around the TV with my family every Christmas, being able to play even a small part in such an iconic piece of British television is truly surreal.'
EastEnders boss comments
EastEnders boss Ben Wadey added: 'We're delighted to welcome Matthew to EastEnders, and he has been a fantastic addition to the cast. Craig's presence in Walford forms part of a storyline involving the Brannings that will unfold this summer.'
Matthew's Hollyoaks background
Matthew is no stranger to soap operas, having played Ethan Williams on Hollyoaks for three years. Ethan, a quick-witted barman, featured in storylines including kidnapping Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) and a romance with Sienna Blake (Anna Passey), whom he famously serenaded in a mimed iconic scene. Ethan met a tragic end two years ago when Sienna pushed him from a balcony at his wedding venue, ending Matthew's time in the village.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or streams from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
