In The Accidental Star, we follow the journey of a talented yet cautious actress, Ruby Fox-Miligan—played by Beth Cordingly—who enters a world she never meant to stay in, only to discover that sometimes the most unexpected paths lead to the most profound destinations.
Beth’s story begins with a practical decision. Commuting from Brighton to Leeds wasn’t part of her ideal plan, and a long-term role on a major soap wasn’t either. A one-year stint on Emmerdale was the compromise: enough to challenge herself as an actor, but with an end in sight. What she didn’t expect was to fall in love—with the role, the place, and the people.
Ruby, her character, stepped into the chaotic heart of Emmerdale’s drama, carving a presence strong enough to land Cordingly a nomination for Best Leading Performer at the British Soap Awards. Not just that—her on-screen chemistry with William Ash, who plays Caleb Miligan, earned them a joint nomination for Best On-Screen Partnership. But behind the accolades lies a quieter, more intimate story.
Beth reveals that from the moment she and her daughter agreed to take on the role, she viewed it as temporary. Yet, as time passed, something shifted. She describes the set of Emmerdale as magical, almost mystical—joking that the village must be built on a ley line because of the energy it radiates. Unlike other sets where divisions often form between cast and crew, Emmerdale thrives on unity. Departments like wardrobe and makeup aren’t just efficient—they’re warm, uplifting, and collaborative.
This unity made every workday not just professional but deeply fulfilling. What began as a temporary gig became a calling.
The story then centers on her dynamic with co-star William Ash. Their natural ease translated into a compelling relationship on-screen between Ruby and Caleb. Off-screen, Cordingly describes Ash as “one of the best actors of his generation.” Their scenes together became effortless, each performance a moment of synergy, making their nomination for Best Partnership feel well-earned, even if they didn’t take home the trophy.
As awards season rolls on, we see the industry take notice, but for Beth, the greatest reward isn’t recognition—it’s the unexpected joy of becoming part of a family. She expresses genuine awe and gratitude, still surprised that this soap, this village, and this cast have become something she doesn’t want to walk away from.
And therein lies the twist: a woman who set out with an exit plan finds herself anchored by affection, camaraderie, and belonging.
Just like her character Ruby—often guarded, practical, and fiercely independent—Beth’s own arc is about opening up to something bigger than the job itself. From costume fittings to emotional scenes, the everyday routine became infused with meaning. As fans call for more Ruby storylines and critics hail her nuanced performances, the once-temporary actor now seems like one of Emmerdale’s cornerstones.
In The Accidental Star, we’re reminded that careers aren’t always built on ambition alone. Sometimes, they’re shaped by the people we meet, the places that surprise us, and the roles we never expected to cherish. As Ruby’s story continues to unfold on screen, Beth Cordingly’s real-life journey behind the scenes is a testament to the magic that can happen when you follow your instincts—and stay just a little longer than planned.
Will Beth remain in the village much longer? No one knows for sure—but if Emmerdale has anything to say about it, her story is just beginning. 🌟
