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Charley Webb
Charley Webb
from Wikipedia

Charlene Joanne Webb (born 26 February 1988), commonly known as Charley Webb, is an English actress. From 2002 to 2021, she portrayed the role of Debbie Dingle in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale. In 2014, she was nominated for Best Female Dramatic Performance at the British Soap Awards.

Key Information

Career

[edit]

Before landing the role of Debbie, Webb previously appeared on the stage in Manchester in a production of Bugsy Malone when she was eight. She joined the soap opera Emmerdale in 2002 at the age of 14. She was nominated for Best Actress at the 2009 British Soap Awards and was also nominated for Sexiest Female at the 2010 British Soap Awards. In 2021, Webb announced that she had made the decision to leave Emmerdale after 19 years.[1]

Personal life

[edit]

Webb attended Philips High School in Whitefield, Greater Manchester.[2] She has two older sisters, and her older brother Jamie Lomas is an actor, known for playing Warren Fox in the Channel 4 soap opera, Hollyoaks.[3] In September 2009, Webb and Emmerdale co-star Matthew Wolfenden announced that they were expecting their first child, due in spring 2010.[4] Webb gave birth to a boy in April 2010.[5] They announced in June 2015 that were having a second child, giving birth to another son on 19 December 2015.[6] In February 2018, Webb and Wolfenden married; their co-star, Lucy Pargeter, was a bridesmaid.[7] Webb announced her third pregnancy in February 2019,[8] giving birth to a third son on 26 July 2019.[9] In November 2023, they announced that they had separated.[10]

In November 2025, Webb revealed that she has been initially diagnosed with both Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Autism.[11]

Filmography

[edit]

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2002–2021 Emmerdale Debbie Jones/Dingle Series regular. 1821 episodes
2006 The Royal Kathy Carberry Series 5; Episode 9: "Winners & Losers". Uncredited role
2012 All Star Mr & Mrs Herself - Contestant Series 4; Episode 9
2014 Text Santa 2014 Debbie Dingle Television Special
2015 All Star Family Fortunes Herself - Contestant Series 11; Episode 10: "Matthew Wright vs Charley Webb"
2018 Celebrity Chase Herself - Contestant Series 8; Episode 5: "Emmerdale Special"
2020 Celebrity Supermarket Sweep Herself - Contestant Series 2; Episode 4
2023 Better Elise Episode 1
The Long Shadow WPC Anna Lawson Mini-series; 4 episodes
2024 McDonald & Dodds Hilary McLean Series 4; Episode 2: "Jinxy Sings the Blues"
Ellis Abbie Summerfield Episode 3: "Brindleton"

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Result Ref.
2003 Inside Soap Awards Best Young Actor Won [12]
9th National Television Awards Most Popular Newcomer Nominated [13]
2005 British Soap Awards Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actor or Actress Nominated [12]
11th National Television Awards Most Popular Actress Nominated [14]
Inside Soap Awards Best Young Actor Won [12]
2007 British Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [15]
Inside Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [16]
2008 Inside Soap Awards Best Bitch Nominated [17]
2009 British Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [18]
Inside Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [19]
2010 British Soap Awards Sexiest Female Nominated [20]
2012 17th National Television Awards Serial Drama Performance Nominated [21]
British Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [22]
2013 18th National Television Awards Serial Drama Performance Nominated [23]
British Soap Awards Villain of the Year Nominated [24]
British Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [24]
Inside Soap Awards Best Bitch Nominated [25]
2014 19th National Television Awards Serial Drama Performance Nominated [26]
British Soap Awards Sexiest Female Nominated [27]
British Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [27]
British Soap Awards Best Dramatic Performance Nominated [28]
Inside Soap Awards Best Actress Nominated [29]
2015 TV Choice Awards Best Soap Actress Nominated [30]
Inside Soap Awards Best Actress Shortlisted [31]
Inside Soap Awards Best Affair (shared with Michael Parr) Won [32]
2016 21st National Television Awards Serial Drama Performance Nominated [33]
2019 24th National Television Awards Serial Drama Performance Nominated [34]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Charlene Joanne Webb (born 26 February 1988) is an English actress best known for her long-running role as in the ITV , which she portrayed from 2002 to 2021. Born in , to a single mother, Helen Webb, she grew up with two older sisters and a brother, , who is also an actor known for his role in . Webb developed an interest in acting from a young age, performing in school productions and making her professional stage debut at age eight in a local staging of . At 14, she joined as the rebellious , a character central to major storylines involving family drama, crime, and romance, earning her critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including for at in 2009 and 2012. Beyond , Webb has pursued diverse roles in television and theatre, including early stage work. In recent years, she starred as police constable Anna Lawson in the 2023 ITV true-crime drama The Long Shadow, which depicted the Yorkshire Ripper investigation, and as Elise in the thriller Better, exploring police corruption. In 2023, she took on the role of Diana Ingram in the stage adaptation of at Theatre, portraying a key figure in the 1990s British game show scandal. As of 2025, Webb has joined the cast of the upcoming ITV psychological drama , created by , playing Leah Kirkman opposite and in a story examining infidelity, class, and social media's impact. In her personal life, Webb was married to Emmerdale co-star from 2018 until their separation in 2023 after 15 years together; the couple share three sons born in 2009, 2015, and 2020, and have stated they remain friends while co-parenting. Her performances in also garnered wins at the Inside Soap Awards, including Best Young Actor in 2003 and 2005.

Early life

Family and upbringing

Charley Webb was born Charlotte Anne Webb on 26 February 1988 in , . She was raised by her single , Helen Webb, in a close-knit in the nearby area of Whitefield after her passed away when she was 14. Helen, a working mother who managed the household single-handedly, provided a stable environment for her children following the loss, instilling resilience and . Webb grew up with three siblings: two older sisters, one of whom is make-up artist , an older brother who is also an actor known for roles in , and a younger brother Daniel Webb, who has appeared in television productions. The family background exposed her to local life in Bury and Whitefield, where she attended Philips High School and participated in typical school activities amid a supportive sibling dynamic.

Initial acting pursuits

Charley Webb's interest in acting developed during her childhood in , where she attended Philips High School in nearby Whitefield. At around age eight, her passion was sparked through drama classes at school, where her teacher recognized her talent and contacted her mother to suggest she audition for a local stage production. This led to her first professional role in a production of the musical at age eight, marking her entry into stage performance. The experience in this youth-oriented show, which featured child actors in a Prohibition-era story, fueled her early enthusiasm for theater and local opportunities in the region. As a teenager, Webb continued her involvement in youth theater and , building on her initial stage work while balancing school. By age 14, in 2002, she successfully auditioned for the ITV Emmerdale, securing the role of —originally introduced as a foster child—without prior screen experience, launching her into professional television.

Career

Breakthrough on Emmerdale

At the age of 14, Charley Webb was cast as the troubled teenager in the ITV soap opera , marking her breakthrough role after some prior stage work that aided her successful audition. She made her on-screen debut in the episode broadcast on 24 December 2002, introduced as the foster child of Paddy and . Debbie's character arc began with her as a rebellious foster teen grappling with identity issues, soon revealed as the secret biological daughter of and Charity Tate, which thrust her into the chaotic heart of the family. Key storylines highlighted her evolution, including a teen pregnancy that led to the birth of her daughter and later son Jack—conceived as a saviour for Sarah's health needs—as well as her entanglement in criminal schemes typical of the Dingles, such as involvement in scams and dodgy dealings. These narratives underscored her growth from a vulnerable to a fierce matriarch, fiercely protective of her family amid ongoing conflicts, betrayals, and reconciliations within the extended clan. Webb's tenure as Debbie spanned from 2002 to 2021, encompassing over 1,800 episodes and solidifying the character's status as a soap staple. Her performance earned critical acclaim for its emotional depth, particularly in handling the role's intense dramatic arcs involving personal loss, family strife, and resilience, which helped elevate 's journey from troubled outsider to empowered family anchor.

Departure from Emmerdale and later roles

In February 2021, after a brief return to the soap at the end of 2020 to wrap up a revenge storyline for her character , Webb's final scenes aired, marking the end of her 19-year tenure on . In December 2021, amid speculation following her husband Matthew Wolfenden's on-set controversy, a source close to Webb confirmed she was leaving the show permanently to pursue new opportunities, with no plans for a return. Webb later elaborated in interviews that her decision stemmed from a desire to "spread her wings" after nearly two decades in a demanding long-running role, emphasizing the challenges of sustaining such an intense commitment while prioritizing family life and personal growth. She expressed no regrets about the move, noting it allowed her to explore diverse projects beyond constraints. Following her departure, Webb transitioned to varied television roles, showcasing her versatility in drama and crime genres. In 2023, she portrayed WPC Anna Lawson, a involved in the Ripper investigation, in the ITV true-crime miniseries The Long Shadow, which focused on the victims and the manhunt's impact. That same year, she appeared as Elise, a key figure in a web of corruption and moral dilemmas, in the thriller Better, centered on a detective confronting her criminal past. In 2024, Webb made a as nurse Hilary in an episode of the ITV detective series , contributing to a jazz-themed murder investigation. In September 2025, Webb was announced as part of the cast for the ITV six-part drama , created by , where she will play Leah, the sister-in-law of the protagonist in a provocative tale of and family secrets. This role underscores her continued pivot toward complex, character-driven narratives in contemporary British television.

Other professional endeavors

In addition to her acting career, Charley Webb has built a presence as a influencer, particularly on , where she shares and lifestyle content with her 581,000 followers. Her posts often feature outfit inspirations, travel snapshots, and personal style tips, establishing her as a relatable figure in the digital space. Webb has made guest appearances on podcasts, discussing topics related to her professional experiences and personal insights into balancing work with family life. Earlier, in May 2023, she appeared on the "Make-Up Your Life" podcast in an hosted by her sister, where she opened up about her background and the challenges of . Through , Webb has contributed to conversations on by sharing practical tips and honest experiences, such as hacks for teaching children about and managing bedtime routines. She has also endorsed wellness practices, recommending manifesting techniques from Roxie Nafousi's book as part of her routine for maintaining after challenging periods. In 2025, following her separation from her long-term partner, Webb has used platforms like and to document aspects of her evolving personal empowerment, including subtle reflections on co-parenting dynamics that emphasize resilience and independence. These posts, often blending motivational messages with everyday updates, have resonated with followers navigating similar life transitions.

Personal life

Relationship with Matthew Wolfenden

Charley Webb met fellow actor on the set of the ITV soap opera in 2006, where she portrayed and he played . The pair began dating in 2007, shortly after the end of Wolfenden's previous relationship. The couple started cohabiting in 2008 and became engaged on Christmas Day 2009. Their relationship faced challenges, including a separation in 2013 after five years together, but they reconciled in 2015. In a surprise ceremony at Ripley Castle in Yorkshire on 10 February 2018, Webb and Wolfenden married, with guests initially believing they were attending Webb's 30th birthday party; their Emmerdale co-star Lucy Pargeter served as bridesmaid. Throughout their partnership, Webb and Wolfenden frequently shared insights in joint interviews about navigating the demands of their schedules alongside , such as maintaining their connection during the 2021 lockdown when long work hours tested their routine. They mutually supported each other's professional milestones, including celebrating nominations and on-set successes within the soap's high-pressure environment. Webb and Wolfenden announced their separation on 23 November 2023, after 15 years together and five years of marriage. The split was described as amicable, with both emphasizing their focus on co-parenting. In a May 2025 interview, Wolfenden revealed the decision was initiated by Webb and came as a "big shock," while both have since spoken about progressing independently, with Wolfenden entering a new relationship.

Family and children

Charley Webb and her former partner share three sons: Buster, born in April 2010; Bowie Grey, born on 19 December 2015; and Ace Gene, born on 26 July 2019. Webb's pregnancies with her second and third children coincided with her role on Emmerdale, where her maternity leaves were incorporated into the storyline for her character, . For her second pregnancy, announced in June 2015, Webb took maternity leave in late 2015 following the birth of Bowie, with Debbie's narrative adjusted to reflect her absence. Similarly, she announced her third pregnancy in 2019 and began maternity leave in July 2019 after filming her final scenes, during which Debbie's storyline involved a temporary departure from the village. Webb has emphasized maintaining her family's , rarely sharing detailed photos or personal updates about her children on to shield them from public exposure. During the , she described challenges with her sons, whom she affectionately called "feral boys," highlighting the chaos of managing their alongside daily routines. The has also enjoyed travels together, such as trips that allowed Webb to balance relaxation with responsibilities. As of 2025, following their 2023 separation, Webb and Wolfenden have established an amicable co-parenting arrangement for their sons, prioritizing their well-being despite initial adjustments. Wolfenden has noted that co-parenting required time to stabilize after 15 years together, but they now maintain a friendly dynamic focused on family stability. Webb has openly discussed the difficulties of balancing motherhood with her acting career, including the emotional toll of long work hours away from her children. She has faced public scrutiny on , where trolls have criticized her choices, prompting her to defend her approach fiercely while describing herself as "very protective" of her family. In response to such negativity, Webb has advocated for empathy toward mothers navigating high-profile lives.

Filmography

Television appearances

Webb's television career spans several notable roles across British networks, primarily in drama series and soaps.
Year(s)TitleRoleNotesSource
2002–2021EmmerdaleDebbie DingleMain role in over 1,800 episodes, ITV soap opera
2006The RoyalKathy CarberryGuest role, 1 episode, ITV medical drama
2023BetterEliseGuest role, 1 episode, BBC One crime drama
2023The Long ShadowWPC Anna LawsonRecurring role, 4 episodes, ITV true crime miniseries
2024EllisAbbie SummerfieldGuest role, episode 3, Channel 5 detective series
2024McDonald & DoddsHilary McLeanGuest role, series 4 episode 2 ("Jinxy Sings the Blues"), ITV crime drama
2025AdulteryLeah KirkmanUpcoming role in psychological drama series, ITV

Stage work

Following her departure from Emmerdale in 2021, Webb made her professional stage debut in 2023, portraying Diana Ingram in the UK national tour of James Graham's play , a dramatization of the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? coughing scandal. Co-starring with as , the production opened at on September 22, 2023, toured various venues including Theatre in October 2023, marking her first credited professional theatre role. As of November 2025, Webb has not taken on additional major stage productions, though she has occasionally participated in industry readings and workshops as referenced in interviews.

Awards and nominations

Wins

Charley Webb has received several accolades throughout her career, primarily recognizing her long-standing portrayal of in the ITV . Despite earning multiple nominations across major soap awards ceremonies, her wins are relatively few, underscoring the competitive nature of the industry and enhancing the significance of her victories as markers of her evolution from a young talent to a respected veteran. These awards highlight pivotal moments in her performance, from early breakthrough roles to later dramatic storylines. In 2003, Webb won the Inside Soap Award for Best Young Actor for her role as , celebrating her debut year on and her ability to portray a complex teenage character amid family dynamics. She repeated this success in 2005, securing the same category at the Inside Soap Awards, where her nuanced depiction of Debbie's growth and emotional depth was praised by voters. These early triumphs, rare for emerging actors in soap operas, established Webb as a promising force and contributed to her enduring recognition within the genre. Later in her career, Webb shared the 2015 Inside Soap Award for Best Affair with co-star , honoring the intense on-screen romance and conflict between and , which captivated audiences and drove key plot developments in . This win, amid a year where dominated with eight awards overall, affirmed her skill in handling layered relationships and solidified her status as a soap stalwart after over a decade on the show.

Nominations

Charley Webb has garnered over 20 award nominations across major soap ceremonies, underscoring her sustained recognition for delivering powerful performances in emotionally charged narratives, such as those exploring domestic abuse and family loss in . These accolades highlight her versatility and impact in the genre, with frequent nods for both leading actress categories and standout dramatic scenes.

British Soap Awards

Webb's nominations at the frequently centered on her portrayal of , emphasizing her ability to convey complex emotional depth.
YearCategoryCitation
2009Best Actress
2014Best Female Dramatic Performance
2008–2020 (multiple)Best Dramatic Performance

Other Nominations

Webb has also been shortlisted at other prestigious awards, including over 10 nominations at the Inside Soap Awards from 2005 to 2020 for categories such as Best Actress and Best Bitch, often tied to her Emmerdale storylines. She received a nomination for Serial Drama Performance in 2009.

References

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