Emmerdale star Beth Cordingly reaches out to fans over Anthony actor Nicholas Day: ‘We all need a little bit of protection’
Emmerdale actress Beth Cordingly has reached out to fans on social media over Nicholas Day, the actor playing her dad, Anthony Fox.
Viewers know Anthony is a vile man who s.e.x.u.a.l.l.y abused Ruby when she was just 14. His rapes resulted in the birth of her daughter Steph when she was 16.
But in real life, Beth insists Nicholas is a “gem”.
Emmerdale star Beth Cordingly issues message to fans on social media over Anthony actor Nicholas Day
Writing on her Instagram page, Beth addressed her followers. She said: “In case anyone is under any illusions I just want to stress what a beautiful man Nick Day is, in real life. We were very lucky to have an actor of his calibre and talent playing my father, Anthony, in Emmerdale.”
The actress then continued: “It wasn’t an easy role for anyone to take on and he found playing this person extremely challenging.
“I loved working with Nick, we all did. It was an emotional experience requiring a lot of trust and a lot of love. He’s a gem.”
The Ruby Fox-Miligan star urged her followers to be kind. “If you see him in the street please remember he’s NOT Anthony. I’m sure you all will – so forgive me for sounding patronising – I just wanted to say. Sometimes, as actors, we need a little bit of protection when we put ourselves out there telling difficult stories that need to be told.”
Fans and other co-stars were quick to agree with Beth, with Amy Walsh (Tracy Robinson) commenting: “Ah, what a gent! I had the honour of a couple of scenes with him! Lovely man.”
A fan wrote: “He really did play his part well, right down to the crazed look in his eyes in some scenes, I’d love to see him in a Shakespeare play, think he’d be awesome in one.”
“If an actor is really hated you know they’ve played a blinder… it’s a very powerful storyline which made my skin crawl…. He’s fantastic! I hope people remember he’s only acting the part… you both deserve an award,” agreed another one.
One more added: “So nice of you to say this. I echo what many have said. I hated Anthony, he made my skin crawl. Proving what a fantastic and brave actor Nick Day is, it can’t be easy to play a character like this. Another hard hitting storyline done well by Emmerdale.”
Praise for Emmerdale’s Beth Cordingly and Nicholas Day
In fact, both Beth and Nicholas have come in for huge praise during this hard-hitting storyline. Nicholas has created one of the most vile villains ever to grace our screens.
And the scenes in which Ruby confronted her dad left fans in no doubt what a star Beth is.
One fan wrote: “Beth Cordingly is a phenomenal talent. ITV are so lucky to have her as Ruby!”
Another praised: “Beth Cordingly is award-worthy on Emmerdale this week. May Ruby remain at the centre of the show forever.”
“Give Beth Cordingly all of the awards. This is a very dark, dark storyline, even for a soap. And she has been amazing,” another fan commented.