Matthew Wolfenden opens up on ‘very very tough’ split from Emmerdale co-star Charley Webb
Former Emmerdale favourite Matthew Wolfenden has opened up about the emotional challenges of rebuilding his life after his separation from fellow soap star Charley Webb, admitting that the breakup was an incredibly difficult period for him.
The actor, best known for playing David Metcalfe in the ITV soap, revealed that while the split was painful, he and Charley have worked hard to create a stable co-parenting arrangement for their three sons.
After more than a decade together, the former couple faced the challenge of putting their differences aside and focusing on what matters most — their children.
Matthew Wolfenden Reflects On Difficult Separation From Charley Webb
Matthew Wolfenden and Charley Webb were one of soapland’s most recognisable couples after meeting while working together on Emmerdale.
The pair began dating in 2007 and later married in 2018, going on to welcome three children together.
However, after 15 years as a couple, Charley made the decision to end their relationship in 2023.
Matthew previously revealed that the separation was not something he had chosen, describing the period as one of the hardest experiences of his life.
Speaking about the split, the actor admitted that receiving the news was particularly difficult because their children were still young.
“It was a very, very tough time,” Matthew explained.
He revealed that the situation was especially challenging because he was already caring for their children while Charley was away working, making the sudden change even more difficult to process.
Despite the emotional impact, Matthew said both he and Charley knew they needed to move forward and find a way to support their family.
The Former Couple Find A New Rhythm As Co-Parents
Although their relationship ended, Matthew explained that he and Charley have managed to build a healthier routine as co-parents.
The actor admitted that it has taken time to adjust, but both have worked together to ensure their children continue to feel supported.
Matthew said that their approach is based around helping each other whenever possible.
“I’m often around and when I’m around I can help Charley out. When she’s around, she can help me out.”
He also praised the support they have received from their parents, describing them as incredibly patient throughout the transition.
With both families helping where needed, Matthew and Charley have been able to create a system that works for everyone involved.
Balancing Fatherhood With A New Acting Career
Following his departure from Emmerdale, Matthew moved on to another major soap role, joining rival ITV soap Hollyoaks as Jonah.
The career change brought fresh opportunities, but also created new challenges due to his demanding filming schedule.
The actor revealed that his work commitments involve a long commute, meaning careful organisation is needed to balance his professional and personal responsibilities.
However, Matthew explained that parenting has become a team effort, with support coming from his family and his partner Heather Scott-Martin.
The actor said that everyone involved has had to adapt and find a routine that allows his children to feel secure.
Matthew’s Advice For Parents Going Through Separation
Looking back on his own experience, Matthew admitted that there is no perfect guide for handling a breakup when children are involved.
Instead, he believes every family has to find its own way forward.
Speaking about co-parenting, he explained that parents have to learn as they go and create an approach that works specifically for their circumstances.
“You do just have to learn a lot as you go. It’s all new. Everyone’s different, so you’ve got to create your own path.”
For Matthew, the most important thing is ensuring that children remain happy, supported and able to enjoy their childhood despite changes happening around them.
He believes that putting children first is the key priority for any parent facing separation.
“The most important thing is to think of the children. As long as they’re happy and thriving, then I think you’ve done a good job.”
A New Chapter For Matthew And His Family
Matthew and Charley’s journey highlights the reality that life after separation can be complicated, especially when children are involved.
While the end of their relationship was painful, the pair have focused on creating a positive environment for their sons.
The former couple share three children: Buster, Bowie and Ace, and Matthew explained that each child has their own personality and way of handling family changes.
He joked that their youngest son, Ace, still has to “fight his own little corner” because of his age, while the younger children have always looked up to their eldest brother Buster.
The actor’s comments show how much his priorities have shifted since becoming a father, with his children now at the centre of every decision he makes.
From Emmerdale Favourite To Family Man
Matthew Wolfenden spent many years as David Metcalfe on Emmerdale, becoming a familiar face for ITV viewers through dramatic storylines, romances and family struggles.
Away from the soap world, however, his biggest challenge has been navigating personal change while continuing to be a devoted father.
Although the end of his marriage to Charley Webb marked a difficult chapter, Matthew has shown that rebuilding family life after separation is possible.
With a successful acting career, a new relationship and a strong support network around him, the former Emmerdale star is now focused on creating a positive future — both on screen and at home.
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