Emmerdale’s Natalie J Robb has opened up about her character’s “grief” after her daughter transitioned into a man.
The actress, who plays Moira Barton, was recently introduced to Matty, formerly known as Hannah.
And the shocked mum is now in mourning for her lost girl.
Read more: Emmerdale fans turn against “brat” Amelia
In upcoming scenes, her efforts to connect with her son go sour when Matty reveals he’s given up on her.
Speaking to What’s On TV, Natalie attempts to explain the difficult dynamic between mother and son.
Asked about Moira’s initial reaction to finding out about Matty, she said: “It was a total jaw-dropper. She was like, ‘What is going on?’ and she felt like she had failed as a mother.
“She has taken it all very personally. That he felt he couldn’t come to her is a failure in her eyes.”
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While Moira has gained a son, she’s also lost a daughter, and Natalie explains: “She’s grieving. She feels that she has missed out on so much and now, all of a sudden, Hannah is someone else; a stranger.”
When Moira gets a call to say that Matty is in hospital after being attacked, she rushes to his side.
Natalie says: “Matty gets beaten up and Moira rushes to the hospital, but he’s very cold with her because she keeps calling him Hannah – it’s not deliberate; she just can’t help it. Soon he’s had enough and says he never wants to see her again.
“Moira leaves, but then goes back to the hospital and Matty has gone.”
Moira then fears she’s lost her child forever…
Matty arrived in the Dales last month.
Afraid of what his mother might think, and unprepared for a confrontation, he broke into her house to retrieve his passport.
However, Cain caught him and the whole truth eventually spilled out.
While Moira threw Matty out in shock, his old school friend Victoria Sugden accepted him without question – sparking fan theories that the pair will become a cute couple!
Watch this space!
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