A former Hollyoaks actor is set to join the cast of EastEnders.
Matthew James-Bailey described the role as a "dream come true," marking his debut as Detective Constable Craig Ingram in a major new storyline.
The 31-year-old actor will appear on the long-running BBC soap as a member of Walford’s police force, stepping in to support Detective Inspector Jack Branning.
Matthew James-Bailey joins cast of BBC soap EastEnders
The soap star said: "Joining EastEnders has been a dream come true.
"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."
Det Insp Branning will be seen on the BBC soap struggling to manage his professional duties alongside personal challenges.
The character arrives this summer and will work on a case connected to Albert Square, with early details suggesting a close link to the Branning family.
The Branning family, including Jack Branning and his brother Max, will be at the centre of the drama in the highly anticipated New Year’s Day episode, as revealed in a flash-forward which aired at the start of this year.
EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey said: "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 James-Bailey's career so far
Mr James-Bailey first appeared in Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks in 2016, appearing in one episode as Jake, a man who went on a date with John Paul McQueen (James Sutton).
It was in 2021 that he returned to the show as Ethan Williams, a character involved in dramatic plots including kidnapping and accidental murder.
In 2024, James-Bailey announced that he had been axed from Hollyoaks due to the show moving to three-week episodes in September.
His character Ethan was killed off on his wedding day to Sienna, as he fell from a balcony after an explosive row with Sienna.
He said at the time: "It's come to an end a lot sooner than I would have liked. In previous interviews, I've said that I'd happily stay at Hollyoaks forever.
"It wasn't my choice to leave, but that's just the way that the game works, unfortunately!
"It's hard to say goodbye to the fans and all of the people there that I love.
"But you have to look at it as new beginnings, take the bull by the reins, get back on and do it."
He has also featured in the BBC drama Cucumber, created by former Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies.
EastEnders is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Did you watch Matthew James-Bailey on Hollyoaks? Let us know in the comments.
