Emmerdale Icon Reflects on 17 Years and Embracing Change
Natalie J Robb, the beloved actress behind Emmerdale's Moira Dingle, has opened up about her evolving perspective on life after turning 50 last year. With 17 years on the iconic soap, Robb is urging others to live in the moment and practice kindness, both to themselves and those around them.
A New Mindset for the Present Moment
Robb, now 51, reveals that her approach to life has shifted significantly with age. "I tend to not look too far into the future. I try to live each day like it's my last," she explains. The actress emphasizes the importance of finding positivity daily, whether through small acts like eliciting smiles from strangers or simply appreciating good moments at work.
"That's really important. When I was younger I used to always live in the past or try to look too far into the future. But we should just live in the now," Robb notes. She admits that maintaining this mindset is challenging but crucial, especially as she has learned to be kinder to herself about issues like body image that once caused her distress.
Coping with a Demanding Filming Schedule
Robb's schedule on Emmerdale has been intense in recent years, with Moira facing a brain tumour diagnosis, wrongful imprisonment for a double murder, and her husband Cain's prostate cancer storyline. This has meant long hours alongside co-star Jeff Hordley, leaving little time to unwind.
To manage the stress, Robb has turned to tai chi, a Chinese martial art she practices via a mobile app for 15 minutes daily. "I have felt a difference with it. I do it for 15 minutes a day and I have noticed a difference in my sleeping. It's very calming," she shares. The routine not only aids her sleep but also helps her learn lines and maintain a positive outlook.
Emmerdale's Role in Raising Awareness
Robb praises Emmerdale for its commitment to highlighting health issues, from mental health to cancer. She stresses the importance of such storylines in encouraging open conversations. "People didn't know until mental health was kind of brought up to the forefront and started to be talked about, which is important," she says, noting the interconnectedness of mind and body.
In the show, Moira's support for Cain during his health struggles exemplifies this, with Robb hoping it inspires viewers to speak out about their own feelings. "Moira is always trying to open him up. She knows him inside out. That's why they're good for each other because they balance each other out," she adds.
Major Changes Ahead for Moira Dingle
Fans can expect significant developments for Moira, who remains in prison for crimes she did not commit. Robb hints that this experience will harden her character, leading to a rebirth upon release. "I think prison makes her a bit harder. I think the way she presents herself is going to change a bit, because she's had everything taken away from her," she reveals.
Additionally, a major shake-up involves Moira selling Butlers Farm to Kim Tate after 17 years, a plot point that left Robb "gutted." "I was gutted when I found out, I'm not going to lie. But gutted in a way because I've been there from day-to-day," she admits. However, she sees this as an opportunity for fresh stories, aligning with the show's return to its roots with families like the Tates, Dingles, and Sugdens.
"All good things come to an end. It does feel a little bit odd but we are producing some good stuff at the minute, so I'm happy with that," Robb concludes, embracing the evolution both on and off screen.
