Matthew James-Bailey, the actor behind EastEnders' new dodgy copper DC Craig Ingram, is no stranger to soap operas, having previously starred in Hollyoaks.
Last month, DC Craig Ingram arrived in Walford as a colleague of Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) and is now investigating the violent attack on Joel Marshall (Max Murray). Craig was handed Jack's criminal caseload as Jack supports partner Denise Fox (Diane Parish) through treatment for acute myeloid leukemia.
In upcoming scenes, Craig is set to grow suspiciously close to Jack's teenage daughter, Amy Mitchell (Ellie Dadd), offering her a shoulder to cry on and overstepping professional boundaries.
Who plays Craig in EastEnders?
Matthew James-Bailey, from London, portrays the copper on the BBC soap and has expressed excitement about his latest role. "Joining EastEnders has been a dream come true", he said. "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."
Soap fans will recognise the 31-year-old as Ethan Williams on rival soap Hollyoaks. In November 2021, the character was introduced as one of the villains who had abducted Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson). From money laundering, murder, and kidnapping, the mysterious villager won over hearts of soap fans across the nation.
Over three years, Ethan became a favourite, leaving fans devastated when he was abruptly killed off on his wedding day in October 2024. After heated arguments with his new bride, Sienna Blake (Anna Passey), he was shoved from a window and died.
Axed from Hollyoaks
Ethan's dramatic exit came after Channel 4 bosses chose to axe Matthew from the soap as part of a significant cast reduction, coinciding with the show's shift to three episodes per week.
In a chat with Digital Spy at the time, Matthew admitted he didn't want to leave the Chester-based soap. "It's really bittersweet," he said of his character's conclusion. "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!"
Political career
Despite pursuing acting, Matthew once set his sights on a career in politics. Born Matthew Lee Trevor Bailer, he studied Government and Politics as he passionately pursued a potential run for office and involvement in his local community.
Ultimately, the star decided to go in a different direction and moved to Harlow College to study a two-year performing arts programme. Soon after, he landed his first gig in the TV series Cucumber and cemented his place as a soap star on Hollyoaks. He's now EastEnders' latest mysterious copper.
Secret talent
Matthew is also a singer and regularly shares videos belting out impressive covers, including Post Malone's hit I Had Some Help alongside Oakley Orchard.
Fans have wasted no time in praising the actor on his musical talents, with one person commenting on the social media post: "He can act, he can sing." A second stated: "Oh my God, I never knew Matthew can sing," while a third chimed in: "Ugh I love this sm, yous are amazing!! The song and your voices just hits the top."
"Not just a good actor but he can also sing as well what is something you can’t do," shared another.
Away from the spotlight, Matthew tends to keep his romantic life private and is yet to announce a relationship.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer.
