Matthew James Bailey, best known for playing Ethan Williams on Hollyoaks from 2021 to 2024, has joined the cast of EastEnders as DC Craig Ingram. The actor has already begun filming, and his scenes are set to air this summer as part of a major storyline involving the Branning family.
New Character and Storyline Details
DC Craig Ingram is introduced as a younger colleague of Jack Branning (Scott Maslen). He is brought in to take over some of Jack's workload as Jack struggles to balance his professional duties with supporting Denise Fox (Diane Parish), who has been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), an aggressive form of blood cancer requiring urgent treatment. Jack's boss suspects he is overwhelmed, leading to Craig's arrival in Walford.
Given Albert Square's history as a hub for crime stories since 1985, Craig quickly becomes involved in a nearby case. EastEnders boss Ben Wadey commented: '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.'
Matthew James Bailey's Reaction
Bailey expressed his excitement about joining the long-running BBC soap: '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.'
Previous Role on Hollyoaks
Bailey is no stranger to soap operas, having played Ethan Williams on Hollyoaks for three years. Ethan was a quick-witted barman involved in several storylines, including kidnapping Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor Dawson) and a romance with Sienna Blake (Anna Passey), which included a memorable mimed serenade. Ethan met a tragic end two years ago when Sienna pushed him from a balcony after their wedding, ending Bailey's time in the village.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One, or streams from 6am on BBC iPlayer.
