Joe Absolom, an actor etched into the memories of a generation for his iconic portrayal of Matthew Rose on EastEnders, has recently stirred significant discussion with candid reflections on his time within the BBC soap. Now embarking on a new chapter as Ray Walters in ITV’s Emmerdale, Absolom’s transition has not only ignited fan excitement for his latest villainous role but has also offered a revealing glimpse into the often-demanding world of long-running television dramas. His new character, Ray, a drug-dealing antagonist in the Dales, provides a compelling backdrop for Absolom’s newfound candour regarding his past experiences, particularly the distinct atmosphere on the set of EastEnders.
In a recent interview, Absolom openly hinted that his tenure on EastEnders was not entirely a smooth sail, especially when juxtaposed with the seemingly more congenial working environment he has discovered at Emmerdale. He lauded Emmerdale as “a very nice place to work,” commending the cast and crew for fostering a relaxed atmosphere that he found particularly conducive to his acting style. Absolom further elaborated that the Emmerdale set felt “proper,” allowing the production team to operate at a more measured pace, free from the relentless pressure of constant haste. This stands in stark contrast to his vivid recollection of EastEnders, which he characterised as perpetually rushed, leading observers to infer a degree of frustration from his earlier years on the BBC soap.
Absolom’s remarks about EastEnders arrive as something of a revelation, given his deeply ingrained history with the show. His character, Matthew Rose, was at the epicentre of one of EastEnders’ most unforgettable and dramatically intense storylines of the late 1990s and early 2000s: the murder of Saskia Duncan. This gripping plotline saw Matthew, alongside the menacing Steve Owen (played by Martin Kemp), become embroiled in a fatal altercation with Steve’s volatile ex-girlfriend, Saskia. After Steve accidentally killed Saskia in a struggle, he, with Matthew’s reluctant assistance, buried her body under the floor of his club, The E20. The ensuing cover-up became a labyrinthine web of deceit and paranoia, profoundly impacting both characters. Matthew, already a somewhat troubled individual, found himself increasingly burdened by guilt and the constant threat of exposure. This psychological toll was compounded when Steve, a manipulative and ruthless businessman, eventually framed Matthew for the murder, leading to Matthew’s wrongful conviction and imprisonment.
The saga did not end there. Years later, after his release from prison, Matthew Rose returned to Walford, consumed by a burning desire for vengeance against Steve Owen. His reappearance sent shockwaves through Albert Square, culminating in a dramatic showdown that saw Steve Owen perish in a fiery car crash, sealing the tragic fates of both men. This storyline, lauded for its gritty realism and high stakes, solidified Matthew Rose as an iconic character in EastEnders’ extensive history and propelled Absolom into national prominence. While his run on the show was undeniably memorable and career-defining, it appears the rigorous demands and fast-paced nature of the production environment may have contributed to his eventual departure. Such an intense, high-profile storyline, requiring immense emotional commitment under tight schedules, could understandably leave an actor feeling the strain.
Beyond his formative years on EastEnders, Joe Absolom has cultivated a diverse and respected career across various television dramas and films. Far from being typecast, he has demonstrated considerable versatility, featuring in critically acclaimed series such as Vincent alongside Ray Winstone, The Bill, Casualty, and the popular crime drama Doc Martin. This varied experience outside the relentless pace of soap opera production likely offered him different insights into the mechanics of television, allowing him to appreciate the contrasting methodologies employed across different sets. His return to the world of long-running serial dramas, therefore, comes with the perspective of a seasoned actor who has navigated diverse roles and production styles.
Regarding his new undertaking in Emmerdale, Absolom expressed genuine enthusiasm for joining the enduring ITV soap, describing it as an “honour” to become part of its esteemed cast. Fans can anticipate his character, Ray, to inject a potent dose of dark, menacing energy into the Dales. Ray’s initial foray into the storyline sees him deceptively selling farm machinery, a seemingly innocuous facade that quickly crumbles to reveal his true, nefarious nature as a drug dealer. This dual identity adds immediate layers of intrigue and peril, promising to entangle beloved characters in his web of illicit activities.
Absolom’s casting in Emmerdale has already generated considerable buzz, a testament to his reputation and talent. Producer Laura Shaw voiced palpable excitement about enlisting such a skilled performer, praising Absolom’s immense acting prowess and the calibre of his performance, particularly in embodying a character as complex as Ray. Shaw noted Ray’s compelling duality – a calm, unassuming exterior expertly concealing a dangerous, manipulative core – a challenge Absolom is evidently mastering.
In a broader reflection, Absolom also took the opportunity to muse on the profound shifts that have reshaped the television landscape since his initial departure from EastEnders. He astutely acknowledged the seismic rise of streaming platforms and the accompanying fundamental change in how contemporary audiences, particularly younger generations, engage with television content. The era of families gathering religiously to watch soaps at a fixed time each day has gradually receded, giving way to on-demand consumption and a fragmentation of viewing habits. While recognising the undeniable value and convenience of streaming, Absolom remains steadfast in his belief that traditional soap operas will always retain a unique and vital place in the television ecosystem. He concedes, however, that their role, while enduring, may never again replicate the dominant cultural force they once represented.
The evolution of soap operas, as Absolom highlights, is a fascinating case study in media adaptation. Shows like EastEnders and Emmerdale have traditionally thrived on their ability to reflect contemporary social issues, offer relatable characters, and provide a constant, unfolding narrative that acts as a comforting anchor for millions of viewers. In an age of binge-watching and limitless content, soaps are challenged to maintain their appeal. Yet, their enduring popularity underscores their unique ability to foster a strong sense of community and ongoing engagement, albeit through a different lens than two decades ago. The introduction of compelling, multi-faceted villains like Ray Walters is crucial in this dynamic, providing the necessary conflict and high-stakes drama to keep viewers invested week after week.
With his strategic move to Emmerdale, Joe Absolom is poised to infuse the show with a new level of intensity and dramatic excitement. His character, Ray, with his hidden depths and dangerous motivations, is rapidly becoming a focal point, promising to deliver yet another gripping twist to the ever-unfolding, drama-filled world of Emmerdale. Absolom’s journey, from the iconic squares of Walford to the rural intricacies of the Dales, embodies not just an actor’s career trajectory but also the resilience and evolving nature of British soap opera itself.
