EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role

As a devoted fan of Gavin & Stacey, I must say that following the journey of James Corden and Ruth Jones over the years has been nothing short of a delightful rollercoaster ride. From their humble beginnings on the small screen to their meteoric rise to fame, it’s clear that their unique talent for storytelling and character development resonates with audiences far and wide.

Actress Natalie Cassidy, known for her work on EastEnders, has shared that she tried out for a memorable character in the popular series Gavin and Stacey, but unfortunately, she did not win the role.

41-year-old actress, renowned for her portrayal of Sonia Fowler on the BBC soap, confessed that she tried out for a part opposite James Corden (currently 46 years old) around about 17 years back.

Initially, the actor aspired to secure the part of Rudi, who is the sibling of Smithy (James’ character). However, they were ultimately passed over for the role, with Sheridan Smith, age 43, being chosen instead.

She has since reminded James of her audition during a special episode of hers and  Joanna Page’s, 47, joint podcast, Off The Telly. 

In the course of their conversation during the podcast, Natalia and Joanna engaged Adrian Scarborough, aged 56, and Robert Wilfort, aged 47, who are renowned for their roles in Gavin and Stacey.

However, they were left in shock once Natalie revealed her link to the iconic British sitcom. 

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role

In our recent chat, the duo gave me their nod of approval, and I couldn’t help but share this intriguing tidbit: It’s not about me personally, but there’s a small connection I have with the beloved series, Gavin and Stacey.

Subsequently, she astonished everyone by disclosing, “I tried out for the role of Smithy’s sibling,” causing both guests to let out surprised breaths. Adrian exclaimed in amazement, “Could it have been you as Rudi? Oh my goodness!

Previously, Natalie had only shared her secret with Joanna, not having spoken about it aloud to anyone else.

She continued: ‘I went up Oxford Street into Baby Cow, did my read with James and it didn’t go to plan, unfortunately. But yeah.’

After saying goodbye to Adrian and Robert, the women welcomed James and the show’s director, Christine Gernon, onto the podcast.

Following their greetings, it didn’t take long for Natalie to bring up her audition from over 17 years back, which she felt the need to mention to James.

She mentioned to him, “I had almost landed the role of Rudi, which I shared with Adrian Scarborough and Rob earlier. Don’t you recall that, James?

James responded: “Indeed, I recall. It was you whom we had in mind. I distinctly remember our conversation over the phone regarding that matter. You would have excelled in it.

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role
EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role

Vying for a future role with James, Natalie quipped: ‘It’s alright. Next sitcom, yeah?’

This highly praised show focuses on the lives of main characters Gavin, a resident of Essex, and Stacey, originally from South Wales. The series captures pivotal moments in their long-distance romance and instances that draw both sets of families closer together.

The comedy show “Gavin & Stacey” made its debut on BBC Three back in 2007, and it ran for a total of 20 episodes across the span of three seasons.

As well as James and Ruth, it turned Mathew Horne, 46, and Joanna into household names.

This year on Christmas Day, the final episode – a 90-minute special – will be broadcast, wrapping up the series that fans have been eagerly anticipating to conclude its tale.

Following James and Ruth announcing an abundance of Smithy and Nessa in the last episode for Gavin & Stacey fans, they reflect that the complex nature of their characters’ romance forms the core essence of the beloved BBC series.

On the Table Manners podcast hosted by Jessie and Lennie Ware, the acting duo and screenwriting team gave a sneak peek into their upcoming Christmas special. They shared that viewers will uncover significant details about the character Nessa, played by Ruth, including her past and potential future with Smithy.

James mentioned that Nessa’s life has been a fascinating mix of experiences, and he hinted at revealing more about it in this unique piece, which includes some genuinely entertaining sections that we’ve composed,” (paraphrased)

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role
EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role
EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy reveals real reason she was snubbed for Gavin and Stacey role

He mused that the reason fans have taken Smithy and Nessa to their hearts is because ‘on TV or films, you very rarely see people that look like Ruth and I fall in love.’

‘Instead of helping me deliver a TV to Hugh Grant in Bridget Jones, you’re just hanging out at a newsstand like it’s no big deal while someone buys a paper.’

I appreciate the show because it’s chaotic, intricate, and there are explicit sexual moments that suggest great confidence. I truly enjoy this boldness. (or) The show appeals to me due to its complex and disordered nature, with a clear display of intimate scenes that exude confidence. I find this appealing.

Initially, Ruth mentioned that when the show first started, the writers’ companions were uncertain about how to portray their unusual relationship. She clarified: ‘Their first intimate encounter occurred in the very first episode, and I believe this was because, since we weren’t entirely certain what the series was, we may have been a bit too comedic about it.’

In simpler terms, Ruth remembered, “We were alone on a road that held special meaning for us. As I looked at my cherished friend, James, I found myself telling him, ‘I loved you completely,’ and by that, I meant you specifically.

Despite the pair now promising the upcoming special actually is the finale, there’s been a flurry of fan speculation that there could be more to come.

James firmly believes that what we are witnessing is the end, issuing a foreboding message to viewers by stating: “This cannot continue. Once you see it, you will understand.

Gavin and Stacey: The Finale will air on Christmas Day at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer. 

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2024-12-21 05:05

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