Growing Up in the Spotlight

Natalie J Robb has been part of British television since childhood. The Bellshill-born actress made her debut at nine years old and has rarely been off-screen since. From Take the High Road to Coronation Street, Doctors, and her long-running role as Moira in Emmerdale, she has become one of Scotland’s most recognisable soap stars.

But fame has not always been easy. Over the years, Natalie has faced scrutiny about her looks, her private life, and her career choices. Like many women in the public eye, she admits she once worried constantly about her weight, her clothes, and the expectations placed upon her.

Now, after turning 50 in December, Natalie has decided she no longer wants to live under that pressure. Instead, she is embracing a calmer, more present version of herself.

Embracing Life at 50

Reflecting on the milestone, Natalie said:

“I feel happier, more settled, and calmer in myself. When you’re younger, especially in this industry, you look for acceptance. That’s not really me anymore. I’ve become more comfortable in my own skin.”

She explained that she used to feel guilty for not always being productive or fit, but now she sees things differently. Looking back at old photos, she realised how harshly she once judged herself.

“Someone sent me a bikini photo where I thought I was overweight. I wasn’t at all. Now I don’t worry about that. At least I’ve made it to 50, and hopefully I have many years to come.”

Natalie believes her 50s have brought perspective and wisdom. “You don’t have to try so hard,” she said. “In your 20s and 30s, you’re still trying to fit in and adjust. By 50, you know what you don’t want to adjust to anymore.”

A Shift in Priorities

Single and living near Leeds, Natalie admits she once poured too much energy into work and not enough into her personal life. But these days, she’s content focusing on her rescue puppy, Buddy, a Spanish Mastin.

She isn’t actively looking for romance. “Since I turned 50, I’m not that bothered about a relationship,” she said with a laugh. “When you’re younger, society tells you to chase the fairytale life. That doesn’t exist for everyone. If it happens naturally, great. If it doesn’t, I’m fine.”

Healing After Heartbreak

Buddy arrived after the devastating loss of Bronson, Natalie’s beloved crossbreed Akita-Rottweiler, who passed away last year at 15.

“Losing him was the hardest thing in the world,” she admitted. “He was my baby. I still cry about him.”

For months, she struggled with the silence in her home. Then, one night, she had a vivid dream. She was running through a forest when a blond dog appeared beside her. “The dog said, ‘Bronson sent me. I’m here to protect you.’ I woke up in tears.”

Two weeks later, she spotted a puppy online that looked identical to the dream dog. The rescue group was based near her mother’s former home in Spain. Soon after, Buddy joined her family — and as he grew, he became the spitting image of the dog from her dream.

“I don’t know what to make of it,” she said. “But it’s very strange.”

Staying Grounded in Emmerdale

Natalie has played Moira Barton — now Moira Dingle — since 2009. Fans often ask if she plans to leave Emmerdale, but Natalie insists she lives in the present.

“I don’t think about that,” she explained. “If things change, they change. I’ll deal with it then.”

Moira is currently at breaking point in the soap. After battling health issues and a slurry leak at Butler’s Farm, she faces pressure from Joe and Kim Tate, as well as newcomer Celia, to sell. “She wants the farm to be her children’s legacy,” Natalie said. “She’s overwhelmed but fighting on.”

Supporting Farmers in Real Life

Although Natalie cannot attend, many of her castmates — including Mark Charnock, Lisa Riley, and Lawrence Robb — will take part in the Great Scone Palace Challenge this September. The three-day event raises money for the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution, which supports struggling farmers.

Natalie believes it’s a vital cause. “Farmers work unforgiving hours, often in isolation. They’re under pressure from prices and changing markets. On Emmerdale, Moira could really use that kind of support. It resonates with me.”

Looking Ahead

Whether she’s portraying Moira’s struggles on-screen or caring for Buddy at home, Natalie J Robb is stepping into her 50s with a new sense of peace. She’s no longer chasing the next thing — instead, she’s living in the now, embracing who she is, and finding comfort in the life she has built.

“I feel truly happy in myself at the moment,” she said. “It’s not about what I don’t have. It’s about enjoying what I do.”