Matthew James-Bailey, the 31-year-old actor best known for his role in Hollyoaks, has described joining the cast of EastEnders as a "dream come true" as he prepares to debut in a major new storyline this summer. He will play Detective Constable Craig Ingram, a character brought into Walford's police force to take over the workload of Detective Inspector Jack Branning, portrayed by Scott Maslen.
Character and storyline details
DC Ingram's arrival is tied to a storyline involving the Branning family. Jack Branning is currently at the center of a blood cancer plot involving his wife Denise Fox, played by Diane Parish, who is undergoing treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia. The new detective will work on a case close to Albert Square, linked to the Branning family drama that will unfold this summer.
James-Bailey expressed his excitement: "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."
Producer and executive comments
EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey praised the new addition: "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."
The Branning family, currently led by Jack and his brother Max (Jake Wood), will also be central to the highly-anticipated New Year's Day episode, as revealed in a flash-forward aired at the start of 2024.
James-Bailey's previous work
James-Bailey has appeared in BBC drama Cucumber, created by former Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies. In 2021, he landed a role in Channel 4's Hollyoaks as Ethan Williams, a charismatic and troubled character involved in storylines including kidnap and accidental murder before his on-screen death in 2024. EastEnders airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
