Jump directly to the content

EASTENDERS actress Natalie Cassidy has hit back at online criticism after being gifted clothes despite being a millionaire.

The soap star, 42, addressed the issue during a September episode of her 'Life with Nat' podcast, where she discussed fashion.

a woman in a white dress sits on a blue couch
3
EASTENDERS actress Natalie Cassidy has hit back at online criticism after being gifted clothes despite being a millionaire.Credit: Rex
a woman in a blue uniform is talking to a man in a green vest
3
The star is best known for playing Sonia Fowler in EastEnders since 1993.Credit: BBC
two women on a boat laughing and drinking champagne
3
Natalie's family recently enjoyed a trip away to Greece for a week where hotel stays can cost up to £1000 a night.Credit: instagram

She applauded Tesco for its "lovely bits" and gave a shoutout to River Island for its latest collection, which she said is perfect for the festive season.

Natalie revealed: "Leather jacket out of there is lovely. They've treated me to a couple of bits. They've been really kind.

"I went in-store because I'm doing this documentary, and Madeline who works there has been so kind."

However, after showcasing her new items on Instagram, she received backlash from followers who criticised her for accepting freebies despite her wealth.

Read More on EastEnders

Natalie explained: "From people saying, 'Oh brilliant. Someone who earns loads of money getting free clothes'.

"So what I would say to that, and I understand that comment, is it's because I'm doing a television programme."

The actress explained that it’s similar to buying costumes for a show, as stores want her to wear their pieces while she’s on screen, according to the Manchester Evening News.

The star said it's like having a "bit of a wardrobe" as well as "being every day" while also mentioning she "rarely" gets negative attention on the internet.

'It wasn't right' says EastEnders' Natalie Cassidy as she admits pocketing £100,000 to lose four stone - and put it straight back on

Natalie has become a familiar face on our screens as Sonia Fowler in EastEnders since 1993.

In July, news broke that she would be taking a break from the soap to team up with Channel 4 to front a brand-new programme called What's The Big Deal?

The new lifestyle show comes off the back of Channel 4's popular Air Fryer programme which investigated Britain's latest craze.

She said of the new project: “I am looking forward to getting to ask the questions we all want to know about must-have products.  

“Like all of us, I love to try the latest things but as a busy mum what I really want to know is what lives up to the claims and what is the best deal?”  

The four-part series is yet to be given a release date.

Topics