EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy breaks silence following online backlash after being 'gifted bits'

ok.co.uk:

EastEnders actress Natalie Cassidy has clapped back at online critics who questioned why she was receiving free clothing despite her substantial earnings.The 41 year old soap star addressed the issue during a September episode of her 'Life with Nat' podcast, where she was discussing fashion.

She gave a shout-out to Tesco for its "lovely bits" and praised River Island for its current offerings, including "nice" shirts and some "really nice leopard print stuff" 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 sharing her new items on Instagram, she received messages criticising her for accepting freebies despite her wealth.

Natalie responded: "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." She further explained that it's similar to buying costumes for a show, as stores want her to wear their pieces while presenting or appearing on screen, according to the Manchester Evening News.The former Strictly star confessed that 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.