Over the past 18 months she has successfully created one of the most memorable and terrifying characters in soap history.
And on Saturday, Pendle sensation and Coronation Street star Natalie Gumede proved just how popular she has become as she stole the limelight at the British Soap Awards.
The former Colne Park High School student, who shot to fame with her portrayal of domestic abuser Kirsty Soames back in 2011, picked up gongs for “Best Dramatic Performance”, “Best Villain” and “Best Storyline” at the glittering ceremony at Manchester’s Media City.
She also helped the ITV soap scoop five more awards, including the most sought-after trophy for “Best Soap”.
Talking at the star-studded event, Natalie, who was wearing a red and gold Alexander McQueen dress, said: “Gosh. Thank you. I really feel this belongs to the show, belongs to Coronation Street.
She later added: “I’ve been nurtured, and guided, and supported, and picked up off the floor by every single person in the production, so thank you very very much for everything. It’s been the experience of my lifetime.”
And taking to Twitter after the awards, Natalie (29) said: “Thank you everyone for your votes and messages. I’ve read them all and am truly humbled.”
Natalie left the Corrie cobbles back in April, having been involved in one of the soap’s darkest and most dramatic storylines.
And while it has not yet been announced what her next venture will be, it is clear to see that the actress’ time on the street has left her with an army of highly-dedicated fans.
Among them is former BBC North West Tonight presenter Gordon Burns, who wrote on Twitter: “Congrats on fab soap award. Richly deserved. U certainly scared daylights out of me as well as Tyrone! Brilliant performance”.
And a fan a little closer to home is Natalie’s former headteacher Dr Paul Parkin, who told the Leader Times: “We’re very proud of Natalie for winning the Best Dramatic Performance award and for the best storyline award.
“She showed a talent for drama while at school and so we are pleased she is making a success in a tough business.
“We’re sure she will go on to even bigger things in her career.”