Matthew Wolfenden, known for his roles in Emmerdale and now on Hollyoaks, has had his fair share of on-screen drama. From facing blackmail, love triangles, and cancer as David Metcalf to starting his Hollyoaks journey with a dramatic car crash, he is no stranger to intense storylines. Despite the chaos in his professional life, Matthew’s personal life remains drama-free, especially when it comes to co-parenting with his ex-wife Charley Webb.
The actor, aged 45, shares three sons – Buster, Bowie, and Ace – with Charley, 38, who portrayed Debbie Dingle. Following their separation in 2023 after almost two decades together, Matthew emphasized that their focus has always been on putting their children first. They have established a co-parenting routine where they alternate weeks caring for their kids, a system that has worked well for them from the start.
Matthew highlights the importance of ensuring their children are in a positive environment post-divorce. Learning to navigate co-parenting has been a learning curve, with Matthew emphasizing that every situation is unique, and parents need to find their own paths. His key advice to parents going through a breakup is to prioritize their children’s happiness and well-being above all else.
When the kids are with Matthew, the atmosphere is lively and full of love. He acknowledges the support of his parents in helping him adjust to single fatherhood during the initial stages of the separation. Despite the challenges, Matthew has found love again with musical theatre star Heather Scott-Martin, whom his children adore.
Transitioning from his long stint on Emmerdale, Matthew faced uncertainties as a freelance actor but remained optimistic for a breakthrough opportunity. His recent projects include a role in Hollyoaks as Jonah Keane and his participation in a short film called Kate Expectations. Matthew’s enthusiasm for storytelling that combines humor and emotions shines through as he delves into new acting ventures.
In Hollyoaks, Matthew’s character, Jonah, faces a tumultuous introduction to the show through a dramatic accident involving the Keane family and the Osbornes. The collision sets the stage for intense family dynamics and conflicts, adding layers to the unfolding storyline. Matthew’s personal experiences as a father have influenced his portrayal of Jonah, who navigates relationships with his son and stepfamily on the show.
As Matthew continues to explore diverse roles and projects, his dedication to his craft and passion for storytelling remain unwavering. Embracing new opportunities in both television and film, he looks forward to further expanding his acting repertoire and leaving a lasting impact in the entertainment industry.