Inside Emmerdale star Will Ash’s life – close bond with co-star to Corrie star cousin
Will Ash has been causing chaos since taking on the role of Caleb in Emmerdale but away from the ITV show, he seems to live a much more quieter life
Actor Will Ash, best known for his role as the charming yet mysterious Caleb Milligan in the long-running British soap Emmerdale, has won over viewers with his compelling performance.
In the last few weeks, the character which first came to life in 2022, has become a focal point in the show, especially with the upcoming limo crash storyline that promises to shake up the lives of several residents, including Caleb.
Viewers are eagerly anticipating how this dramatic event will unfold, especially since Caleb’s involvement in the crash could reveal even darker elements of his mysterious past.
But beyond the screen, Will leads a fascinating and fulfilling life of his own. Here’s a closer look at the actor’s journey, his off-screen passions, and what he gets up to when the cameras stop rolling.
Early roles
Born in Chadderton in 1977, Will’s passion for acting developed at a young age, and after studying at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).
Before landing his notable role in Emmerdale, Will had already established himself with numerous television and stage performances.
He appeared in various dramas such as Casualty and Silent Witness, and even played a role in the popular BBC series Waterloo Road, where his portrayal of a teacher left a lasting impression on viewers.
Will had a memorable three-year role on the popular BBC drama Waterloo Road from 2009 to 2011, where he played Chris Mead, a troubled deputy headteacher involved in an affair with his boss’s daughter.
He has also appeared in ITV’s gripping serial k.i.l.l.e.r drama The Loch and portrayed Marvin in the British TV series Wanderlust.
Emmerdale connection
During his school years, Will became friends with his future Emmerdale co-star Jeff Hordley, famous for playing Cain Dingle. Both attended North Chadderton Comprehensive in Oldham, where they were inspired by the same drama teacher, Colin Snell.
Colin also mentored other notable actors, such as Nicola Stephenson, Jonas Armstrong, and Jenna Coleman.
Despite the age gap between them, Will and Jeff acted together in a school play, which sparked a friendship that has lasted for many years.
Speaking to Daily Star, he said: “We both went to the same school, North Chadderton Comprehensive in Oldham, and had a really inspirational drama teacher called Colin Snell who not only inspired us but the likes of Nicola Stephenson and then went on to another school with Jonas Armstrong and Jenna Coleman.”
Personal life
Although Will is known for keeping much of his personal life private, there are a few details that fans have come to admire.
He is a family man and values his time with loved ones above all. Will has two children and lives in Greater Manchester with his family.
His private nature means that he doesn’t often share details about his relationships, but it’s clear that he holds close the people who have helped him become who he is today.
Famous cousin
It seems that acting runs in the family, as Will’s cousin is Peter Ash, who is best known for his role as Paul Foreman on Coronation Street.
Peter joined the ITV soap in 2018, and his character tragically passed away on September 9 after an 18-month battle with motor neurone disease.
When previously asked about his cousin stepping into the world of soaps, Peter told The Metro: “He’s doing great work. I’m loving it. I’m loving it, go on the Ash’s.”
Prior to Coronation Street, Peter also gained attention for his role as Darius Fry in Footballer’s Wives, where he starred from 2003 to 2006.
Emmerdale airs Mondays-Fridays at 7:30pm on ITV1
