Emmerdale star ‘quits’ after 17 years as fans could see legend ‘killed off’

Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden has played David Metcalfe in the ITV soap for 17 years, although he could be meeting a deadly end. It’s been reported that the 43-year-old has decided to bow out of the long-running show, which he’s been a part of since 2006. Despite fans seeing David at the centre of some of Emmerdale’s most dramatic storylines, sources claim the actor is ready to explore other ventures. Although the actor, who is married to former soap star Charley Webb, is yet to officially announce his departure, it’s believed writers are in the process of his exit storyline. Express.co.uk have contacted ITV for comment. Matthew Wolfenden has reportedly quit the ITV soap (Image: ITV) A source told The Sun that despite Matthew enjoying his time on the soap for almost two decades, he’s ready for something new. They claimed: ‘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. 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 off.” David’s daughter left the village earlier this year (Image: ITV) Matthew’s character hasn’t had an easy time in the village so far after he had to say goodbye to his daughter Amba (played by Ava Jayasinghe). Amba left with her mum Priya Sharma (Fiona Wade), despite David’s best efforts to keep her close, as fans saw him kidnap his own daughter. David’s exit would come following Dan Spencer’s (Liam Fox) departure from the show earlier this week after being sentenced to eight years in prison. Dan was charged with manslaughter after he punched Lloyd Sawyer (Matt Sutton) who was growing close to his 16-year-old daughter Amelia Spencer (Daisy Campbell). Will David meet a deadly end in the soap? (Image: ITV) Although he was initially charged with GBH when Lloyd was hospitalised from hitting his head on the ground, the situation took a turn when Lloyd died from his injuries. Speaking about his final scenes in the soap, Liam Fox told Express.co.uk and other media publications: “It’s really well written, it’s really nice stuff. It made me cry a few times while reading it. “It’s really emotional, lovely stuff. I feel very lucky to get that sort of script around that story.” Emmerdale continues weeknights on ITV from 7:30pm