Emmerdale star Joe Absolom has taken a major swipe at his former soap EastEnders as he settles into his new role in the Yorkshire-based drama. The actor, who first rose to fame as the troubled Matthew Rose in EastEnders back in 1997, joined Emmerdale this year as the dark and dangerous drug dealer, Ray Walters. But his recent comments about the BBC soap have raised eyebrows, especially regarding how EastEnders compares to Emmerdale behind the scenes.

During an interview on Good Morning Britain, Absolom didn’t hold back when comparing the two shows. He admitted that while his time on EastEnders was fun, working on Emmerdale felt like a completely different experience. “I did EastEnders a long time ago, and it was fun, but Emmerdale is genuinely a very nice place to work. I keep waiting for someone to tell me that this isn’t the real job,” he said. 

Absolom continued, giving a candid insight into the working conditions on both sets. “The crew is really good, and the set is basically a proper place. They can film anywhere. That means you can work quickly but you don’t feel rushed. EastEnders was rushed, and it just feels nicer,” he added.

His words are a pointed criticism of the environment at EastEnders, where tight production schedules and frequent filming demands are well known. But Absolom’s statement wasn’t just about the work environment. He also hinted at the changes in the soap industry, particularly in the age of streaming.

Reflecting on his career and the state of television, Absolom noted, “When I did EastEnders, there wasn’t anything else to do. So, I’ve got kids now, and they won’t sit down at seven and watch telly in the same way I did or my friends did.” His comments reflect the shifting landscape of television, as streaming platforms continue to challenge traditional broadcast models.

Despite his criticisms, Absolom’s comments weren’t just about the past. As he settles into his role as Ray Walters on Emmerdale, a character who presents a calm yet menacing exterior, he’s excited about what’s to come. Ray arrives under the guise of selling farm machinery but soon reveals his true nature as a drug dealer, making for a character that promises plenty of drama and suspense. 

“Well, what an honor to join such a talented team at Emmerdale! It’s an iconic show, and I’m grateful to be part of it,” Absolom said when his casting was first announced. Fans are already buzzing about Ray’s potential and what kind of havoc he’ll wreak in the village.

While the shift from EastEnders to Emmerdale marks a new chapter for Absolom, his past with the BBC soap remains a big part of his career. His role as Matthew Rose, the character famously framed for murder, was a key moment in the history of EastEnders. However, the actor’s recent comments suggest that he’s moved on from that chapter, embracing a fresh start at Emmerdale with a new character and a new dynamic.

As Ray Walters begins his journey in Emmerdale, one thing is clear: Joe Absolom is ready to make his mark, and viewers are in for a wild ride. Will his new role live up to the drama of his past? And what will happen next as Ray’s dark side comes to the forefront? 

The question remains: What does the future hold for Joe Absolom in Emmerdale, and will his past on EastEnders continue to shape his career?