Matthew Wolfenden, best known for his 18-year stint on Emmerdale, has made a dramatic entrance to Hollyoaks. The actor, who played David Metcalf, now portrays Jonah Keane in the Channel 4 soap. In an exclusive interview, he discusses his life as a jobbing actor, co-parenting with his ex-wife Charley Webb, and his new relationship.
Co-Parenting Success
Wolfenden and Webb, who played Debbie Dingle on Emmerdale, separated in 2023 after five years of marriage and nearly two decades together. They have three sons: Buster, 16, Bowie, 10, and Ace, six. The actor says they have a successful co-parenting arrangement. “We do a week on and a week off,” he explains. “We’re living across the road from each other, so we see the kids even when it’s not our week.”
Wolfenden emphasizes that the children’s well-being is paramount. “The most important thing is to think of the children. As long as they’re happy and thriving, then I think you’ve done a good job.” He admits that navigating co-parenting has been a learning experience but credits his parents for helping him through the initial transition.
New Love and Career
Wolfenden has found love again with musical theatre star Heather Scott-Martin, whom he met while starring in Elf The Musical in the West End. He says his sons adore Heather. Professionally, he describes the post-Emmerdale period as challenging. “I spent two and a half years being a jobbing actor – and that is difficult,” he says. “But all it takes is one big break.”
His big break came with roles in Hollyoaks and the short film Kate Expectations. In the film, he plays the love interest of Jack, who loses his father’s ashes at the Grand National. Wolfenden praises the script as “charming, heartfelt, and funny.”
Hollyoaks Debut
Wolfenden’s character Jonah Keane arrives in the village with his wife Beth (Rebecca Ryan) and son Caleb (Lewis Walton). Their introduction is marked by a devastating car crash that causes a rift with the Osborne family. Wolfenden notes the parallels between his character’s blended family and his own. “It’s nice to have that experience as a dad and bring that into the role.”
Wolfenden continues to balance his career and family life, ensuring his children remain his top priority. “As long as they’re happy, I think you’ve done a good job,” he reiterates.
