Matthew James-Bailey, the actor currently playing villainous Craig in EastEnders, has taken on a very different part in a new vertical comedy drama, Make Me a Match, which is now available to watch on the epis app. The 60-episode series follows a matchmaker whose most personal assignment sparks an unexpected forbidden romance.
James-Bailey plays Jeremy, described as a 'bumbling fool' and one of the lead characters, who is in a seemingly perfect relationship with partner Stevie, played by Hayley Sheen. The actor teased that Jeremy 'certainly has his own way of doing things. Whether that's morally right or wrong…'
A Lighter Role After EastEnders
Having previously played goofy Ethan in Hollyoaks and the sinister Craig in EastEnders, James-Bailey said stepping into Jeremy's world has been refreshing. He explained that playing a character desperate to hold onto his relationship while balancing his professional life has been 'a lot of fun and definitely a lot lighter than Craig.'
The ensemble cast also includes Liam Byrne, Love Island's Molly Grace Marsh, Chloe Veitch of Too Hot To Handle fame, and actors Scott Coker, Kit Williams, Christine Walsh, and Rebecca Campora.
Filming for Vertical Television
James-Bailey noted that filming for vertical drama differs greatly from traditional television, with tighter framing, quicker pacing, and more weight on every expression. He said the fast-paced storytelling keeps actors on their toes and described the format as 'changing how audiences consume drama.'
The actor encouraged viewers to give the show a chance, saying episodes are short and punchy, and that it is 'dangerously easy' to keep watching. He added that good storytelling works whether watched on a television or a phone. Make Me a Match is produced by Roseberry and Lime Media and is available now on the epis app.
