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Soap star joins EastEnders as new character in move labelled a 'dream come true'
The former Hollyoaks star will play a detective in a summer police storyline tied to the Brannings and Jack Branning’s workload.
Former Hollyoaks actor Matthew James-Bailey is joining EastEnders as Detective Constable Craig Ingram, describing the role as a "dream come true" in a major new storyline arriving this summer.
James-Bailey previously played Ethan Williams on Hollyoaks from 2021 until 2024, departing during a cast reduction as the show transitioned to three episodes per week.
The 31-year-old actor plays a police officer assigned to assist Detective Inspector Jack Branning, who is struggling to balance professional duties with supporting his wife, Denise Fox, through her health ordeal.
Executive producer Ben Wadey said, "We're delighted to welcome Matthew to EastEnders, and he has been a fantastic addition to the cast," noting Ingram's presence forms part of drama involving the Branning family.
Early details suggest a close link between Ingram and the Brannings, with the storyline set to unfold over the summer months as the family remains central to the show's drama following a flash-forward earlier this year.