Emmerdale's Matthew Wolfenden joins rival soap
Alongside Rebecca Ryan and Lewis Walton!
He's best known for playing the role of heartthrob David Metcalfe in The Dales between 2006-2023, but actor Matthew Wolfenden is about to return to soap land, this time in the Hollyoaks village.
That's right, after leaving Emmerdale a number of years ago, it's now been announced that Matthew will be part of a new family on Hollyoaks, alongside Coronation Street stars Rebecca Ryan, and Lewis Walton.
The exciting news was announced on Hollyoaks' social media pages, introducing three members of The Keane family. The post read: 'Meet the Keanes! 🥳🥳 Give a huge welcome to @matthewwolfenden55, @rebeccaryan___ and @lewisswaltonn who’ll be joining the Hollyoaks village very soon ❤️ But keep your eyes peeled for a 4th member on the way 👀 #Hollyoaks'. (sic)
Matthew said of his new role: "I’m so excited to finally share that I’m joining Hollyoaks as part of a brand-new family arriving in the village. It’s an absolute privilege to step into this world and be part of something so iconic.
"From the moment I read the scripts, I knew this was going to be something special. I can’t wait for the audience to meet them and see how they turn a few heads along the way… it’s going to be a ride, buckle up."
Also announced to join the new family is star of Simon Cowell's Netflix series The Next Act, Sam Meyer.
Sam, who narrowly missed out on being in new boyband December 10, said: "I am absolutely buzzing to say that I am joining the cast of Hollyoaks. He's a cool kid with a lot of golden retriever-like energy. He loves his fashion and he's quite smart for his age."
Channel 4 bosses have confirmed the Keanes will arrive in Chester this Spring, and it sounds like they have a hidden connection to another family on the show.
Rebecca Ryan, who you'll recognise from the likes of Waterloo Road, Shameless and Casualty over the years, is also buzzing to get on set.
She added: "I am so excited to be joining the cast. My character is feisty and a bit of a firecracker but fiercely loyal. I am so excited for everyone to meet her. I am having the best time so far and can't wait for her story to unfold.”
Hollyoaks moved to E4 from its usual Channel 4 slot in September 2024. The soap currently airs Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesday, with new episodes also dropping on Channel 4's streaming platform.
The Keanes will join the soap this Spring.
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