One of Emmerdale’s fan favourites is set to leave the village after 17 years.
Matthew Wolfenden has quit his role as David Metcalfe on the ITV soap, with the news being announced over the summer, and now his exit plot has been revealed.
The actor, 43, who first joined the show in 2006, has been involved with a number of big storylines over the years and viewers of the soap have been speculating what his exit storyline could involve.
Over the last few weeks, David’s step-son Jacob Gallagher (Joe Warren Plant) has been growing closer to his ex-fiancée Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins).
After ending up in hospital after a severe allergic reaction to one of Victoria’s meals in The Hide, Jacob confessed his love for her when she came in to check on him.
Shock leave: Matthew Wolfenden has quit his role as David Metcalfe on Emmerdale, with the news being announced over the summer, and now his exit plot has been revealed
The duo have been reluctant to explore their connection due to their nine-year age gap and Victoria’s past relationship with David.
After jumping into bed together, their secret romance in now set to be revealed by Leyla Harding when she sets out to find out the identity of his secret girlfriend.
Jacob manages to throw her off by pretending to date Gabby Thomas (Rosie Bentham), assuring Victoria that Gabby will play along.
However, when Jacob and Victoria take a risk at his house, David arrives home unexpectedly.
As Victoria hides upstairs, the pair think they have gotten away with it, only for David to later see them share a kiss through the window.
David is rocked by the revelation and after saying an emotional goodbye, departs the village.
In September, actor Matthew broke down in tears as he confirmed he’s leaving the soap after 17 years as David Metcalfe.
The actor appeared on This Morning to discuss his upcoming exit, and revealed that bosses were leaving the door open for him to possibly return in the future.
Drama: Over the last few weeks, David’s step-son Jacob Gallagher (Joe Warren Plant) has been growing closer to his ex-fiancée Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins), with the story set to unravel
Matthew, who joined Corrie as David in 2006, added that his character’s on/off romance with Victoria could be the reason for his departure.
Viewers watched a montage of highlights from Matthew’s time on Emmerdale, including a glimpse of David’s colourful romantic history.
The actor was visibly emotional as he watched the montage, telling Holly Willoughby and Craig Doyle that the show has been ‘a big, big part of his life.’
He said: ‘I’m so nervous about leaving, almost two decades.
‘It feels like the right time, yeah, the door has been left open, they’re not killing me off, they promised. Who knows, I might be back, we will see.
‘Not only has it given me 18 years of an amazing job, it’s given me family. It’s been a big, big part of my life.’
Asked whether he can share any hints about David’s departure, he said: ‘Any resolution with Victoria before his exit?
‘There is a resolution of sorts, I can’t give too much away. Victoria is the reason why he leaves the village.’
Host Craig said: ‘I don’t think it’s a good ending for Victoria,’ and Matthew replied: ‘It’s not the best.’
Matthew then revealed that he’s going to be heading to the stage over the festive season, taking on the role of Buddy in Elf: The Musical.
He said: ‘I finish [Emmerdale] on the Friday, then I start rehearsals on the Monday for Elf. The nerves are there, every time I think about it my heart starts beating.’
He’s off! In September, actor Matthew broke down in tears as he confirmed he’s leaving the soap after 17 years as David Metcalfe
It was reported that Matthew was quitting Emmerdale after 17 years, with sources claiming he was ready to take on a different role.
A source told The Sun: ‘Matthew has had an amazing time on the soap, but feels ready for a change. He hasn’t been getting any gritty storylines recently so wants to see what else is out there.
‘He’s a fan favourite so will get a lot of support in whatever he decides to do next,’.
Before adding: ‘He’s very excited about the opportunities available. He’s only just announced he is leaving so scriptwriters are working out his on-screen exit. It’s possible David could be killed’.
Emmerdale airs weeknights from 7.30pm on ITV.
