Natalie Cassidy Opens Up About an Unexpected Live TV Challenge

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has revealed a live television experience that left her with a lingering fear. Speaking on her podcast Life with Nat, the actress recounted an “odd experience” during her stint on ITV’s This Morning, which she says “did not leave a nice taste” in her mouth.

Her role was to report from the programme’s news hub during the era of hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby. However, the experience quickly became overwhelming, as Natalie found herself unprepared and under pressure in front of multiple monitors and crew members.

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The Incident That Sparked a Big Fear

Natalie explained that she was “shoved in a room” without a rehearsal, given an earpiece, and expected to perform live. She candidly admitted that she “failed miserably” and described feeling completely lost while everyone around her was speaking to her at once.

“They threw to me, and I just did not know what to do. It was like a Partridge gone wrong, and I just stood there,” Natalie said. This incident, she revealed, left her with a lasting fear of wearing earpieces during live broadcasts.

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Reflections on the Awkward Experience

The actress confessed that she has thought about the uncomfortable moment for years. Despite her extensive career in television, including her iconic role as Sonia Fowler in EastEnders, this brief live TV encounter left an emotional mark. She described the experience as chaotic and intimidating, highlighting the challenges of live television for even seasoned actors.

Natalie emphasized that listeners of her podcast would understand the depth of her feelings, offering an honest look at how such unexpected experiences can affect performers long-term.

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Life After EastEnders: Career Highlights

Since leaving EastEnders earlier this year, Natalie has remained active in television and media. She appeared on Channel 4’s What’s The Big Deal: Britain’s Best Buys? and joined Virgin Radio UK for a programme role.

She also showcased her skills in Cooking with the Stars, a culinary competition hosted by Emma Willis and Tom Allen. There, Natalie triumphed over contestants including Kelly Hoppen and Jack Osbourne, ultimately claiming the coveted golden frying pan trophy.

Sharing the achievement on social media, she reflected on her journey, expressing excitement that her long-held wish to appear on the show had finally come true. Photos featured her daughter Joanie, partner Marc Humphreys, and her winning trophy, illustrating a mix of professional success and personal joy.

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Lessons From the Live TV Experience

Natalie’s candid recollection serves as a reminder that live television can be unpredictable, even for experienced actors. The combination of technical equipment, multiple cues, and the pressure of performing in real time can be daunting.

Her story resonates with viewers and performers alike, showing that vulnerability and honesty about challenges can coexist with talent and success. Even after decades in front of the camera, Natalie’s experience underscores the human side of television work—where nerves, mistakes, and fears are part of the journey.

Fans can now celebrate not only her career milestones but also her resilience, as she continues to embrace new challenges with humor and courage.