List of Coronation Street characters (2019)

Natalie Watkins, played by Cassie Bradley, made her first appearance in episode 9657, broadcast on 2 January 2019. She was uncredited until episode 9668 on 16 January 2019. Details of the character and storyline were announced on 12 January 2019. Natalie is an acquaintance of Nick Tilsley (Ben Price) who worked with Nick at his restaurant in Nottingham. Nick enlists Natalie in his plan to rob his grandmother, Audrey Roberts (Sue Nicholls), in return for some of the money. When Nick fails to pay her, Natalie arrives in Weatherfield to confront him. Nick's partner, Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson), spots them speaking, so he claims that Natalie is his divorce lawyer. Nick's brother, David Platt (Jack P. Shepherd), realises that Natalie is involved in the scheme and confronts Nick. Bradley expressed her delight at joining the cast, commenting, "feeling very honoured [and] excited to be on this street".

The character is reintroduced in March 2019 when she arrives at Nick and David's barbers for a job. Vickie Scullard of the ''Manchester Evening News'' reported that Natalie's return would "cause some serious drama for Nick" and predicted that she would "blackmail him and threaten to expose him to his family". Helen Daly of the ''Daily Express'' observed that Natalie is "out to get" Nick when she returns. Writers placed Natalie in a new storyline as she develops a crush on David, who is engaged to Shona Ramsey (Julia Goulding), after he gives her an opportunity in the barbers. Bradley explained that Natalie "admires" David because he is "speaking up for her". She thought that Natalie would be "a pretty good match" for Shona since they have similar personalities and backstories. Bradley called them "rough diamonds" and looked forward to seeing them quarrel. Provided by Wikipedia