A BRADFORD-born actor says she is thrilled to be making a return to our screens in a TV soap opera.

Natalie Anderson is joining the cast of Channel 4's Hollyoaks as Lexi next week.

She is no stranger to soaps, having previously starred as Alicia Metcalfe in Emmerdale between 2010 and 2015.

Natalie, who started acting as a child at Bradford Playhouse, will make her debut on Hollyoaks next week when the mystery surrounding Lexi gets under way when Grace overhears her new lover, Nate, talking to her on the phone. When he acts secretive about their conversation, Grace suspects he might be seeing her, but the truth is soon revealed.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Natalie Anderson is playing Lexi in Hollyoaks. Picture: Tom PitfieldNatalie Anderson is playing Lexi in Hollyoaks. Picture: Tom Pitfield

There will be many twists and turns in this storyline in the coming months, as the focus turns on the Deveraux family, and the secrets they have buried are soon to be resurfaced.

Natalie says she is excited to join the Hollyoaks cast, working alongside stars including Richard Blackwood and Kelle Bryan.

Natalie said: “I’m so thrilled to be playing Lexi.

She’s such a strong and intriguing character with lots of layers, that I’m thoroughly enjoying playing with

“I’ve loved working with Chris Charles and exploring the dynamic between Lexi and Nate’s relationship as the storyline unfolds.

"I’m having so much fun, and everyone at Hollyoaks have been so lovely and welcoming.”

 

Natalie took to social media to thank fans for their support for her new screen role. She tweeted: "Thank you so much for all of your lovely lovely messages about Hollyoaks

"I really appreciate your kindness and support….I hope you enjoy Lexi."

Fellow Bradford-born actor Verity Rushworth, who has also previously starred in TV dramas including Emmerdale, replied to Natalie's tweet, posting: "Huge congrats !!!! Amazing babe xx."

Natalie has also appeared in medical drama The Royal and has starred in the London Production of Wicked.

Since leaving Emmerdale, Natalie has set up The Capsule, an online community for women to share their thoughts and recommendations on fashion, beauty and lifestyle.

The accompanying podcast she presents sees Natalie tackle a host of subjects on wellbeing, positive mental health and self care.

The former Woodside Middle School student, who was born at St Luke's Hospital, also took on a variety of roles during her time at the Bradford Bulls.

She started out at Odsal as a team cheerleader, she went on to sell matchday programmes and also worked as the club's assistant hospitality manager before her big break on Emmerdale.

Hollyoaks airs every weeknight at 7pm on E4.

Natalie’s first appearance on Hollyoaks will be on Thursday, October 28, on E4 and this episode will again be screened on Channel 4 on Friday, October 29.