Matthew Wolfenden facts for kids

Matthew Wolfenden is an English actor and writer. He was born on May 5, 1980. He is well-known for his role as David Metcalfe in the British TV show Emmerdale.

About Matthew Wolfenden

Early Life and Education

Matthew Wolfenden grew up in Norwood Green, West Yorkshire, England. He went to Brighouse High School. When he was younger, Matthew was a talented gymnast. He was even part of the British gymnastics team!

However, when he was 16, he had an accident while practicing on the rings. He broke his back, which meant he could no longer continue with gymnastics. After this, he decided to try acting instead.

Family Life

Matthew Wolfenden was married to his Emmerdale co-star, Charley Webb. They got married in February 2018. The couple has three sons together. Their third son was born in July 2019. Matthew and Charley separated in September 2023.

In 2021, Matthew Wolfenden and another Emmerdale co-star, Isabel Hodgins, were away from the show for about three months. They returned to filming in January 2022.

Matthew Wolfenden's Career

Starting in Television

Matthew Wolfenden's first acting job was as an extra on Emmerdale. In 2006, he was chosen for the role of David Metcalfe on the show. David is the son of Eric Pollard (Chris Chittell). Matthew had actually tried out for a different role, Eli Dingle, before getting the part of David.

He also appeared in Hollyoaks: Let Loose, which is a spin-off show from Hollyoaks.

Music and Ice Skating

In early 2007, Matthew took part in the second series of Soapstar Superstar. This was a TV show where actors from soap operas sang. He finished in ninth place. He sang songs like "Bad Day" by Daniel Powter and "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen.

Matthew also competed on Dancing on Ice in 2012. He was partnered with professional ice dancer Nina Ulanova. His background in gymnastics and dance helped him a lot. He made it to the final and ended up winning the series! While training for Dancing on Ice, he continued to work on Emmerdale.

Writing for TV

In 2022, Matthew Wolfenden and his Emmerdale co-star Roxy Shahidi started working as screenwriters. They wrote an episode for the BBC medical drama Holby City. They also wrote three episodes for the BBC soap opera Doctors.

TV Shows and Roles

Awards and Recognitions