EastEnders has announced the casting of Matthew James-Bailey, who previously played Ethan Williams on Hollyoaks, in the role of DC Craig Ingram. The actor's character on Hollyoaks was killed off in 2024, and he now joins the BBC soap as a detective handling Jack Branning's caseload.
New Character and Storyline Details
DC Craig Ingram arrives in Walford this summer as part of a significant new storyline. He is brought in to manage the workload of Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) after superiors decide Jack is struggling to balance his job with caring for his wife Denise Fox (Diane Parish), who has been diagnosed with cancer. As Craig immerses himself in his duties, he quickly becomes involved in a case connected to Albert Square. Several scenes have already been filmed and are scheduled to air later this year.
Matthew James-Bailey's Reaction
Speaking about his casting, James-Bailey 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."
Background on Hollyoaks Exit
On Hollyoaks, Ethan Williams began as a villain who abducted Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) but quickly became a fan favorite. His character was abruptly killed off on his wedding day in 2024 after a heated argument with his bride Sienna Blake (Anna Passey), during which he was shoved from a window. The departure was part of a major cast reduction by Channel 4, coinciding with the show's shift to three episodes per week, according to the Mirror.
In an interview with Digital Spy at the time, James-Bailey admitted he had no desire to leave the show. "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!" He added that his main aim was to "serve the Hollyoaks fans and give them what they want" and that he "wouldn't have chosen to kill the character off." He expressed a wish to "have an open end," feeling this was what fans deserved "so they can hang onto a glimmer of hope."
Executive Producer Comments
EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey commented on the casting: "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." It is not yet confirmed whether James-Bailey's stint is temporary or permanent.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.
