Emmerdale fans, get ready for a behind-the-scenes revelation that has added a whole new layer of intrigue to the lives of the village’s former stars. Matthew Wolfenden,

the actor who portrayed David Metcalfe for 17 years on the long-running ITV soap, has candidly opened up about life after leaving the show—and it’s a confession that fans

did not see coming. The actor, who departed Emmerdale in April 2024, has revisited one of his teenage jobs in the wake of his exit, humorously admitting, “I need a job,”

in a revelation that has delighted audiences and reminded everyone that even seasoned soap stars have humble beginnings.

A Star Reconnects with His Roots

Matthew Wolfenden, now 45 and a devoted father of three, has had an extraordinary career portraying David Metcalfe, a character beloved by fans for his warmth, vulnerability, and often complicated romantic entanglements. But before the world of Emmerdale captivated him, Matthew worked as a porter in an auction house—a job that might seem worlds apart from the drama and glamour of soap stardom.

Speaking on the recent special Celebrity Yorkshire Auction House alongside former co-star Roxy Shahidi, who played Leila Harding, Matthew reminisced about those early days. “I used to work at an auction house down in Chelsea way back in the day,” he recalled, his eyes twinkling with nostalgia. “I was the lad that stood there showing things… and I need a job, actually,” he joked, eliciting laughter from those present.

The appearance was not only a delightful trip down memory lane but also a heartwarming reunion of former castmates. Matthew was helping Roxy as she prepared her collection of treasures for auction, the proceeds of which would go to charity. Among the items was a striking David Bowie portrait by Trafford Parsons—originally offered to Matthew as a housewarming gift. In a charming twist of fate, it was he who ended up showcasing the portrait to the assembled bidders, donning a porter’s coat and demonstrating his auction house skills once again.

Charity and Nostalgia Collide

Roxy Shahidi, who left the show in February 2025, brought a sense of nostalgia and generosity to the event. As Matthew showcased the Bowie portrait, Roxy shared the story behind it: a thoughtful gift that would eventually fetch £120 from enthusiastic bidders. “It was supposed to be your housewarming present,” she teased Matthew, as auctioneer Angus Ashworth encouraged the crowd. Matthew responded with his signature wit, acknowledging the serendipity of the moment and the joy of returning to his roots.

For fans of Emmerdale, seeing Matthew in this light—a former soap star reconnecting with the simpler beginnings of his career—was both endearing and relatable. It’s a reminder that the actors we watch on our screens, navigating some of the most dramatic storylines on television, have lives beyond their on-screen personas.

David Metcalfe’s Shocking Exit

While Matthew’s real-life return to auctioneering provided a lighthearted moment, fans are still grappling with the emotional fallout of David Metcalfe’s sudden exit from Emmerdale. The character’s departure was dramatic and tied to one of the soap’s most complicated storylines in recent years.

David left the village after discovering that his son, Jacob (played by Joe Warren-Plant), had become romantically involved with his ex-wife, Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins). Unable to cope with the emotional betrayal and heartbreak, David made the difficult decision to relocate to London to be closer to his daughter Amber, who resides with her mother, Priya Sharma (Fiona Wade). The storyline was met with both shock and sympathy from fans, who had followed David’s trials and tribulations for nearly two decades.

Tragedy Strikes Roxy’s On-Screen Persona

Meanwhile, Roxy Shahidi’s character, Leila Harding, met a tragic end on the show earlier this year. Leila’s on-screen life was cut short in a dramatic limousine accident, which also claimed the life of her business associate, Susie Martell. The fatal incident, driven by none other than Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins) behind the wheel, sent shockwaves through Emmerdale, leaving fans devastated and sparking a flurry of online tributes.

The intertwining of these storylines highlights the unique ability of Emmerdale to blend real-world updates with soap opera drama, creating a narrative that is as captivating off-screen as it is on. Matthew and Roxy’s participation in charity events and media appearances reinforces this connection, bridging the gap between the characters viewers love and the actors who bring them to life.

Life After Emmerdale

Matthew Wolfenden’s candid admission about needing work also speaks to a broader truth in the entertainment industry: even long-tenured stars must navigate life after a major role. After leaving a show as monumental as Emmerdale, actors often face an unpredictable future, balancing opportunities in television, theater, and other projects while remaining in the public eye.

For Matthew, revisiting his teenage role as a porter wasn’t just humorous—it was a grounding experience. It allowed him to reconnect with his work ethic and reminded audiences of the humility and perseverance that define both his career and personal life. Moreover, it was a testament to the fact that success in the public eye does not erase the value of hard work, creativity, and adaptability cultivated in earlier years.

Fans’ Reactions

Social media erupted in response to Matthew’s admission and appearance at the auction house. Fans praised his honesty and humor, celebrating both his achievements on Emmerdale and his willingness to revisit his past. Many expressed admiration for how he handled his character’s departure from the show, maintaining dignity while acknowledging the emotional challenges of leaving a role that had defined a significant portion of his life.

The reunion with Roxy added another layer of fan excitement. Seeing two former co-stars collaborate for charity reminded viewers of the tight-knit bonds formed during years on set, as well as the lasting impact these roles have on both actors and audiences alike.

Looking Ahead

As Matthew navigates post-Emmerdale life, fans can expect to see him explore new ventures—whether on screen or in other creative pursuits. His appearance at the auction house, combining nostalgia, charity, and humor, suggests that he is embracing opportunities that allow him to remain visible and engaged with his fanbase while pursuing personal and professional fulfillment.

For Emmerdale watchers, the departure of David Metcalfe and Leila Harding marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new stories, fresh faces, and unexpected twists. Matthew’s openness about needing work humanizes him, reminding viewers that behind the glitz and drama of soap operas are real people navigating real challenges—much like the characters they portray.

Conclusion

Matthew Wolfenden’s candid revelation—“I need a job”—after leaving Emmerdale serves as both a humorous and poignant reminder of the realities faced by actors in the entertainment industry. His revisitation of his teenage job at an auction house, paired with the charity-focused reunion with Roxy Shahidi, offers fans a glimpse into the humanity behind the screen.

At the same time, the dramatic exits of David Metcalfe and Leila Harding continue to reverberate in the village of Emmerdale, creating opportunities for new storylines and ensuring that the ITV soap remains as engaging and unpredictable as ever.

For fans, this update is a bittersweet mix of nostalgia, laughter, and the familiar sting of soap opera drama—a perfect reminder that life, both on and off-screen, is full of surprises.

Matthew Wolfenden may be out of Emmerdale, but his connection to the show, its characters, and its fans remains as strong as ever. And as he navigates life after the ITV soap, one thing is certain: fans will be watching, supporting, and eagerly awaiting the next chapter of his remarkable journey.