Is Matthew Wolfenden Leaving Emmerdale? Why is Matthew Wolfenden Leaving Emmerdale?
by Abinaya | Updated Sep 07, 2023
Is Matthew Wolfenden Leaving Emmerdale?
Yes, Matthew Wolfenden, who played the character David Metcalfe in the popular TV show Emmerdale, is indeed leaving the show. After being part of Emmerdale for an impressive 18 years, he has decided to move on to new adventures. Matthew's departure from the show was confirmed during his appearance on This Morning, where he expressed his emotions and nervousness about leaving a role he had played for nearly two decades.
However, he mentioned that the door was left open, indicating the possibility of a return in the future. His departure marks a significant change in his career after dedicating many years to Emmerdale. Matthew Wolfenden's decision to leave the show was met with mixed emotions from fans who had grown attached to his character, David Metcalfe. While his departure may be bittersweet for fans, it opens up exciting opportunities for the actor, including a lead role in Elf The Musical in London's West End theatre.
This new chapter in his career will see him taking on the role of Buddy, and he will start rehearsals soon after leaving Emmerdale. Matthew's departure marks the end of an era on the show, and fans will eagerly anticipate his future projects and performances beyond Emmerdale's fictional village.
Why is Matthew Wolfenden Leaving Emmerdale?
Matthew Wolfenden's decision to leave Emmerdale after 18 years is driven by a desire to explore new opportunities in his career. The actor, known for his role as David Metcalfe in the long-running soap, felt that it was the right time to embark on fresh adventures. While he expressed nervousness about leaving a role he had dedicated almost two decades to, he also mentioned that the door had been left open, suggesting the possibility of a return in the future.
This departure allows Matthew to pursue diverse acting challenges and take on different roles outside the familiar setting of Emmerdale's fictional village. One of Matthew Wolfenden's exciting post-Emmerdale projects includes starring in Elf The Musical in London's West End theatre. He will play the lead role of Buddy in this production, marking a significant transition in his career.
While fans may miss his presence on Emmerdale, they can look forward to seeing him in this new and festive theatrical adventure. Matthew's departure from the show represents an opportunity for personal and professional growth, and it will be interesting to see where his talents take him beyond the soap opera world.
Who is Matthew Wolfenden?
Matthew Wolfenden is a well-known British actor, best recognized for his long-running role as David Metcalfe on the popular TV show Emmerdale. Born on May 5, 1980, Matthew has made a significant mark in the world of British television. He joined Emmerdale in 2006 and portrayed the character of David for an impressive 18 years, earning a dedicated fan following during his tenure on the show.
Matthew's portrayal of David Metcalfe was known for its depth and complexity, as his character navigated various challenging storylines, including health issues and complex relationships. Outside of his role on Emmerdale, Matthew Wolfenden is known for his talents in both acting and dancing. He has showcased his dancing skills on reality television, participating in the eighth series of "Dancing on Ice" and winning the competition in 2012. His versatility as an actor and his ability to connect with audiences have made him a beloved figure in the world of British entertainment.
Full Name
Matthew David Wolfenden
Date of Birth
May 5, 1980
Age
43 years old (as of 2023)
Birthplace
Halifax, West Yorkshire, England
Occupation
Actor, Dancer
Notable Role
David Metcalfe in Emmerdale
TV Debut
Coronation Street (1996)
Dancing Achievement
Winner of "Dancing on Ice" (2012)
Spouse
Charley Webb (co-star on Emmerdale)
Children
Three children with Charley Webb
Matthew Wolfenden Early Life
Matthew Wolfenden's early life began in Norwood Green, West Yorkshire, where he was born. His journey through education led him to attend Brighouse High School. However, a significant turning point occurred in his life when he was a member of the British gymnastics squad. At the age of 16, a life-altering incident unfolded during a practice session on the rings – Matthew suffered a severe fall that resulted in a broken back.
This unfortunate accident forced him to abandon his gymnastics aspirations, as his physical condition no longer allowed him to pursue the sport. Despite the challenges posed by his injury, Matthew Wolfenden found a new path in life. He transitioned from the world of gymnastics to the world of acting, embarking on a different journey that would eventually lead him to become a well-known figure in British television.
His early life experiences, including the setbacks he faced in gymnastics, played a pivotal role in shaping his future career and the roles he would go on to portray in the entertainment industry.
Matthew Wolfenden Career
Matthew Wolfenden's career is marked by his diverse talents and contributions to the entertainment industry. Before joining the Emmerdale cast, he made his presence felt as a cast member in the musical "Saturday Night Fever," showcasing his abilities in the world of theatre and performance. In Emmerdale, Matthew portrays the character David Metcalfe, the son of Eric Pollard. Interestingly, his journey to this iconic role had its twists and turns.
Initially working as an extra on the show, he later auditioned for the role of Eli Dingle but narrowly missed out to Joseph Gilgun. However, fate had other plans, and he received a callback for the role of David Metcalfe, which marked the beginning of his long-running association with the popular ITV soap. Beyond Emmerdale, Matthew's career includes appearances in "Hollyoaks: Let Loose," a spin-off of the popular soap opera, as well as notable participation in the second series of "Soapstar Superstar" where he showcased his singing talents.
Furthermore, he made a memorable impact on the ice in the seventh series of "Dancing on Ice," demonstrating his remarkable gymnastic and dance skills and earning the title of "King of the Ice." Matthew Wolfenden's career is a testament to his versatility and dedication to the world of entertainment.
Matthew Wolfenden Personal Life
Matthew Wolfenden's personal life is intertwined with his professional journey, as he found love on the set of Emmerdale. He is married to Charley Webb, who also starred in the show as Debbie Dingle. The couple's on-screen chemistry blossomed into a real-life romance, and they eventually tied the knot. Together, they have three children, adding a sense of family and joy to their lives.
Their relationship has been a source of happiness and support, both personally and professionally. Beyond his family life, Matthew's interests and talents extend to the world of dance. He showcased his dance skills on the reality show "Dancing on Ice," where he emerged as the winner of the competition in 2012.
This achievement not only highlighted his dedication to his craft but also allowed audiences to see a different side of his personality. Matthew's personal journey is a blend of love, family, and a passion for the performing arts, making him a multifaceted individual who has left a mark both on and off the screen.
Matthew Wolfenden Net Worth
Matthew Wolfenden has established himself as one of the wealthiest Soap Opera Actors in the United Kingdom. With a successful career in television, his net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, as reported by various sources, including Wikipedia, Forbes, and Business Insider. His journey to fame began as a member of the British Gymnastics Squad until the age of sixteen when a sports injury changed the course of his life.
This pivotal moment led him to transition from gymnastics to acting, ultimately propelling him to a successful and financially rewarding career in the entertainment industry. Beyond his career in television, Matthew Wolfenden has also shown his commitment to making a positive impact on society. He participated in charitable endeavors, such as the Great North Run in 2016, alongside his Emmerdale co-star Eden Taylor-Draper, to raise funds for Bloodwise, demonstrating his dedication to meaningful causes beyond his thriving acting career.
Net Worth
$5 Million
Salary
Under Review
Source of Income
Soap Opera Actor
Cars
Not Available
House
Living In Own House
Matthew Wolfenden Awards
2007
The British Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2008
Digital Spy Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2008
The British Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2008
Inside Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2009
The British Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2012
The British Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2012
Inside Soap Awards
Funniest Male
2012
Inside Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2013
18th National Television Awards
Serial Drama Performance
2013
The British Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2013
Inside Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2014
The British Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2015
Inside Soap Awards
Funniest Male
2016
TV Choice Awards
Best Soap Actor
2016
The British Soap Awards
Best Comedy Performance
2016
Inside Soap Awards
Best Actor
2016
Inside Soap Awards
Funniest Male
2017
22nd National Television Awards
Serial Drama Performance
2017
The British Soap Awards
Best Actor
2017
Inside Soap Awards
Sexiest Male
2019
TV Choice Awards
Best Soap Actor
2019
Inside Soap Awards
Best Actor
Year
Award
Category
Is Matthew Wolfenden Leaving Emmerdale - FAQ
Yes, Matthew Wolfenden is leaving Emmerdale after 18 years on the show.
Matthew is leaving to explore new career opportunities after dedicating almost two decades to the show.
Matthew Wolfenden is a British actor known for his role as David Metcalfe in Emmerdale.
Matthew Wolfenden's net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
Yes, he has received nominations and awards for categories like "Sexiest Male" and "Best Soap Actor" at various award ceremonies.