{{Short description|Fictional character from Emmerdale}} {{Use British English|date=June 2023}} {{Use dmy dates|date=June 2023}} {{Infobox soap character | name = Naomi Walters | image = Naomi Walters.jpg | series = Emmerdale | portrayer = [[Karene Peter]] | first = Episode 9388 <br> {{Start date|2022|06|14|df=y}} | last = Episode 9723 <br> {{End date|2023|07|06|df=y}} | years = 2022–2023 | introducer = Jane Hudson | occupation = Bartender <br /> Chef | mother = [[List of Emmerdale characters (2021)#Esme|Esme]] | father = [[Charles Anderson (Emmerdale)|Charles Anderson]] | brothers = [[Ethan Anderson]] | grandmothers = [[Claudette Anderson]] | grandfathers = [[Victor Anderson (Emmerdale)|Victor Anderson]] }}
'''Naomi Walters''' is a fictional character from the [[ITV (TV channel)|ITV]] soap opera ''[[Emmerdale]]'', played by [[Karene Peter]]. After making an uncredited appearance on 14 June 2022, she began appearing regularly the following month. She was introduced as the estranged and difficult daughter of [[Charles Anderson (Emmerdale)|Charles Anderson]] ([[Kevin Mathurin]]) whose first major storyline sees her involved in an attack against village local [[Nicola King]] ([[Nicola Wheeler]]). The reaction from locals sees her ostracised, but despite their distaste for her, Naomi's characterisation remains bolshy and argumentative.
Throughout her tenure, Naomi is shown to be a feisty, stubborn and strong-willed character. She has various feuds, including spats with her family, [[Manpreet Sharma]] ([[Rebecca Sarker]]), [[Rhona Goskirk]] ([[Zoë Henry]]) and her bosses at the Woolpack. She is also conned by [[Alex Moore (Emmerdale)|Alex Moore]] ([[Liam Boyle (actor)|Liam Boyle]]), which shows a vulnerable side to Naomi when she is devastated by his lies. Peter announced her decision to leave ''Emmerdale'' in April 2023, with her exit airing on 6 July 2023. Viewers were not a fan of Naomi, with many being unappreciative of her nasty nature. However, ''[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]]'' writer Sue Haasler appreciated that she is "a headstrong young woman who insists on making her own decisions in life".<ref name="Headstrong" />
==Casting and characterisation== [[Channique Sterling-Brown]] was among the actresses to audition for the part of Naomi,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Crawford |first1=Sue |title=Channique Sterling-Brown: 'It's bizarre the Baileys are Coronation Street's first Black family in 62 years' |url=https://metro.co.uk/2023/02/10/channique-sterling-brown-addresses-racist-coronation-street-trolls-18253394/ |access-date=27 August 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |date=10 February 2023 |archive-date=12 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230212214531/https://metro.co.uk/2023/02/10/channique-sterling-brown-addresses-racist-coronation-street-trolls-18253394/ |url-status=live }}</ref> but [[Karene Peter]] was ultimately chosen for the role. Peter made an uncredited appearance as Naomi on 14 June 2022,<ref name="Nic">{{cite news|url=https://metro.co.uk/2022/08/23/emmerdale-karene-peter-explains-naomis-involvement-in-nicola-attack-17190465/|title=Emmerdale star Karene Peter explains Naomi's involvement in Nicola's attack|work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]]|date=23 August 2022|last=Kitson|first=Calli|publisher=([[DMG Media]])|access-date=25 August 2022|archive-date=26 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826022711/https://metro.co.uk/2022/08/23/emmerdale-karene-peter-explains-naomis-involvement-in-nicola-attack-17190465/amp/|url-status=live}}</ref> with her first credited appearance airing on 5 July 2022.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=White|first=Kate|date=2–8 July 2022|title=Charles meets his secret daughter!|magazine=[[Inside Soap]]|issue=27|pages=22–23}}</ref> Peter said it was surreal to be joining ''[[Emmerdale]]'' due to having watched the soap as a child. She felt like she had been "transported into [her] TV".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Wheeler |first1=Olivia |title=Everything you need to know about Emmerdale's Naomi star Karene Peter as she joins ITV soap |url=https://www.ok.co.uk/tv/emmerdale-news-cast-naomi-spoilers-27415770 |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[OK!]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=6 July 2022 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629115002/https://www.ok.co.uk/tv/emmerdale-news-cast-naomi-spoilers-27415770 |url-status=live }}</ref> She was cast by Faye Styring, ''Emmerdale''{{'}}s casting director, who knew she Peter would make an impact on the series.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Daly |first1=Helen |title=Emmerdale continues 50th anniversary celebrations with new cast photo |url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/emmerdale/emmerdale-50th-anniversary-cast-photo-newsupdate/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Radio Times]] |date=5 October 2022 |archive-date=9 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209155937/https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/emmerdale/emmerdale-50th-anniversary-cast-photo-newsupdate/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Naomi was introduced as the daughter of established characters [[Charles Anderson (Emmerdale)|Charles]] ([[Kevin Mathurin]]) and [[List of Emmerdale characters (2021)#Esme|Esme]] ([[Eva Fontaine]]), and the younger sister of [[Ethan Anderson|Ethan]] (Emile John). Naomi was initially referenced on the soap in October 2021 when Esme mentions her to Charles.<ref name="Naomi">{{cite news |last1=Haasler |first1=Sue |title=Emmerdale spoilers: Charles is reunited with his lost daughter Naomi but disaster strikes |url=https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/28/emmerdale-spoilers-charles-reunited-with-daughter-but-disaster-strikes-16864897/ |access-date=28 June 2022 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=28 June 2022 |archive-date=28 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220628070819/https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/28/emmerdale-spoilers-charles-reunited-with-daughter-but-disaster-strikes-16864897/amp/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Her backstory involves being put up for adoption by Esme, who was cheated on by Charles and suffered from [[postpartum depression]]. Esme and Naomi later met up, but Charles had initially refused to meet her.<ref name="Naomi" />
On her character, Peter said that Naomi has "got a bit of an edge and she's a little bit misunderstood".<ref name="Angst">{{cite news |last1=Koutsounia |first1=Anastasia |title=Emmerdale newcomer Karene Peter teases dramatic first scenes for Charles's daughter Naomi |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40475780/emmerdale-karene-peter-naomi-first-scenes/ |access-date=2 July 2022 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=30 June 2022 |archive-date=1 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701203008/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40475780/emmerdale-karene-peter-naomi-first-scenes/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She is "a troubled and troublesome soul" who is going through an angsty and rebellious period at the point of her introduction.<ref name="Vinny">{{cite news |last1=Haasler |first1=Sue |title=Emmerdale spoilers: Romance revealed for Vinny and Naomi ahead of exit? |url=https://metro.co.uk/2023/06/17/emmerdale-spoilers-romance-for-vinny-and-naomi-ahead-of-exit-18944954/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=17 June 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629154428/https://metro.co.uk/2023/06/17/emmerdale-spoilers-romance-for-vinny-and-naomi-ahead-of-exit-18944954/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Peter clarified this is nothing to do with her being adopted. She said that Naomi's adoptive family are caring and that she grew up in a loving family unit. When she arrives on the series, she does not make many friends due to her argumentative nature.<ref name="Irritating">{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Sarah |title=Emmerdale fans desperate for Naomi to be 'killed off' as bosses urged to 'get rid' |url=https://www.entertainmentdaily.co.uk/soaps/emmerdale-naomi-beg-bosses-to-axe-irritating/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=Entertainment Daily |date=25 March 2023 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630193336/https://www.entertainmentdaily.co.uk/soaps/emmerdale-naomi-beg-bosses-to-axe-irritating/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Peter opined that the reason for Naomi's rebellious streak comes from abandonment issues with her biological parents. She explained that while Naomi's relationship with Esme had improved from when they first met, it was not the "rose-tinted, fairytale, mother/daughter relationship" that she wanted.<ref name="Angst" /> Esme believes that she is closer to Naomi than she actually is.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Haasler |first1=Sue |title=Who is Naomi in Emmerdale and Karene Peter who plays her? |url=https://metro.co.uk/2022/07/05/emmerdale-who-is-newcomer-naomi-and-karene-peter-who-plays-her-16943944/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=5 July 2022 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630193336/https://metro.co.uk/2022/07/05/emmerdale-who-is-newcomer-naomi-and-karene-peter-who-plays-her-16943944/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Charles initially not wanting to know Naomi had also given her a bad impression of him.<ref name="Angst" />
==Development== ===Relationship with her father=== When Charles learns that Naomi has gone missing, he feels responsible for her disappearance so he hunts for her. He discovers her working in a bar, arguing with her boss. Charles defends her in the argument and knocks her boss over.<ref name="Naomi" /> On the scenes where Naomi meets Charles, Peter said: "Charles is there and has been looking for her, unbeknownst to her. He's been watching this interaction between her and her manager take place and it escalates to the point where he intervenes. In that intervention, he blurts out that Naomi is his daughter. So that kind of shocks her to the core a little bit. She doesn't know how to react to it in that moment."<ref name="Karene">{{cite news |last1=Patterson |first1=Stephen |title=Emmerdale spoilers: Kevin Mathurin and Karene Peter reveal future as Charles meets daughter Naomi |url=https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/28/emmerdale-spoilers-stars-reveal-future-as-charles-meets-daughter-naomi-16900051/ |access-date=28 June 2022 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=28 June 2022 |archive-date=28 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220628070742/https://metro.co.uk/2022/06/28/emmerdale-spoilers-stars-reveal-future-as-charles-meets-daughter-naomi-16900051/amp/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Mathurin explained that Charles did not plan on revealing that he was Naomi's father in that way, but afterwards, he affirms that he wants to get to know her. However, due to Charles being an empathetic character, he would go at the pace Naomi allows the relationship to go at, and if she did not want to know Charles, he would respect that.<ref name="Karene" />
Charles makes "an emotional call" to Naomi trying to establish a relationship, which results in Naomi arriving in Emmerdale village.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harp |first1=Justin |title=Emmerdale's Charles makes emotional call to Naomi after first meeting |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40515798/emmerdale-spoilers-charles-emotional-call-naomi/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=5 July 2022 |archive-date=2 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902035608/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40515798/emmerdale-spoilers-charles-emotional-call-naomi/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She meets him and Ethan, demands money, tels them to delete her number and carry on pretending she was never born. Her vulnerable side is briefly shown when she admits that "she's never fit in anywhere" and feels that she would complicate their life.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harp |first1=Justin |title=Emmerdale's Charles rejected by long-lost daughter Naomi |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40530653/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-rejects-charles/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=6 July 2022 |archive-date=16 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416091629/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40530653/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-rejects-charles/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She then leaves. However, [[Digital Spy]] confirmed that she would be returning to the soap after she establishes an off-screen relationship with brother Ethan.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kilkelly |first1=Daniel |title=7 huge Emmerdale storylines airing in August |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40757197/emmerdale-spoilers-marlon-amelia-billy/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=31 July 2023 |archive-date=16 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220816032757/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40757197/emmerdale-spoilers-marlon-amelia-billy/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Naomi returns and argues with Charles, after which his partner, [[Manpreet Sharma]] ([[Rebecca Sarker]]), finds him unconscious. She reports Naomi to the police and she is arrested, despite being innocent. This causes a feud between the pair.<ref name="Southerners">{{cite news |last1=Fuller |first1=Phoebe |title=Emmerdale viewers slam Naomi as soap draws complaints about 'too many Southerners' |url=https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-viewers-slam-naomi-soap-24775421 |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Leeds Live]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=16 August 2022 |archive-date=18 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220818024734/https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-viewers-slam-naomi-soap-24775421 |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Attack against Nicola King=== In August 2022, Naomi shows more of her nasty side when she threatens Manpreet to not get involved in her life in a "flicker of rage".<ref>{{cite news |title=Emmerdale fans spot clue proving Naomi was behind Nicola King's attack |url=https://www.entertainmentdaily.co.uk/soaps/emmerdale-fans-spot-clue-proving-naomi-was-behind-nicola-kings-attack/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=Entertainment Daily |date=13 August 2022 |archive-date=1 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701153109/https://www.entertainmentdaily.co.uk/soaps/emmerdale-fans-spot-clue-proving-naomi-was-behind-nicola-kings-attack/ |url-status=live }}</ref> This led viewers to begin theorising that Naomi was involved the attack of [[Nicola King]] ([[Nicola Wheeler]]), which aired in June of that year.<ref name="Nasty">{{cite news |last1=Fuller |first1=Phoebe |title=Emmerdale fans' theories over 'nasty' Naomi and brutal Nicola attack |url=https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-convinced-nasty-naomi-24747370 |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Leeds Live]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=12 August 2022 |archive-date=26 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826034448/https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-convinced-nasty-naomi-24747370 |url-status=live }}</ref> The theory was later confirmed as it transpires that Naomi witnessed the attack and did nothing to help. When Nicola recognises her, Naomi does not, as she has blocked the traumatic night from her memories. Speaking from her character's perspective, Peter explained that she wants a place of belonging and temporarily found it with the girls who attacked Nicola. However, she did not support the attack and Peter clarified that Naomi does feel guilty due to not doing anything to help.<ref name="Nic" />
Naomi does not initially admit her involvement to anyone due to not wanting to be ostracised. Writers paired her in scenes with [[Nate Robinson (Emmerdale)|Nate Robinson]] (Jurell Carter) and confirmed that they would become a romantic couple. Naomi is shown to be very confident and flirty whilst pursuing Nate and he falls for her charms quickly.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40976489/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-love-interest/|title=Emmerdale confirms love interest for newcomer Naomi Walters|website=[[Digital Spy]]|date=24 August 2022|last=Rowan|first=Iona|publisher=([[Hearst Communications]])|access-date=25 August 2022|archive-date=25 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220825104922/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a40976489/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-love-interest/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, Nate hears of the attack and this causes a rift between them. The Anderson family also see a backlash from the community due to siding with Nicola.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kilkelly |first1=Daniel |title=Emmerdale's Naomi Walters to face big backlash over Nicola King attack |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a41010988/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-backlash/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=30 August 2022 |archive-date=30 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220930123637/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a41010988/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-backlash/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After admitting her role that night and apologising for not doing anything to help, she is met with hostility rather than forgiveness. Her response leaves "a lot to be desired" as she remains argumentative and self-defensive to the villagers who challenge her.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Denby |first1=Laura |title=Emmerdale's Naomi Walters arrested over attack on Nicola King |url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/emmerdale/emmerdale-arrest-naomi-attack-nicola-newsupdate/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Radio Times]] |date=14 September 2022 |archive-date=26 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026223130/https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/emmerdale/emmerdale-arrest-naomi-attack-nicola-newsupdate/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Naomi is eventually arrested for [[grievous bodily harm]] when her former friends pin the blame on her and set her up. She considers running away but is stopped by Nate and her family. She is "touched" by their support and decides to battle the investigation.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harp |first1=Justin |title=Emmerdale's Naomi makes crucial decision over Nicola case |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a41195241/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-crucial-decision-nicola-case/ |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=13 September 2022 |archive-date=31 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230131100359/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a41195241/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-crucial-decision-nicola-case/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
A court trial is held, which Naomi is apprehensive for. The issue has "become so much more serious than she ever imagined" and knowing what her former friends are capable of, she has fears of going to prison.<ref name="Trial">{{cite news |last1=Kilkelly |first1=Daniel |title=Emmerdale star Karene Peter reveals Naomi's fears in trial storyline |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a41908555/emmerdale-spoilers-karene-peter-naomi-fears/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=9 November 2022 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162509/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a41908555/emmerdale-spoilers-karene-peter-naomi-fears/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Peter enjoyed filming in the courthouse due to it feeling like a legitimate. She explained that it felt "very authentic and visceral watching it all unfold".<ref name="Trial" /> She was glad the storyline had climaxed in a court trial and agreed that Nicola deserved justice for what happened to her. She admitted that playing Naomi, who has questionable emotions and decisions in the storyline, had been a challenge for her.<ref name="Trial" />
===Feuds and encountering Alex Moore=== {{Quote box|width=20%|align=right|bgcolor=#FFE5B4|quote="I think part of her would definitely want revenge. I don't know if her family would let her do anything, but she'd want revenge. I think Naomi would be torn, as she is a misunderstood soul. I think she'd feel devastated more than angry, but I'm sure there'd be a part of her that would want to get Alex back for what he's done."<ref name="Revenge" />|source=—Peter on Naomi's reaction to Alex's lies.}} At the end of 2022, Digital Spy wrote that Naomi would be set for a "turbulent" 2023.<ref name="April">{{cite news |last1=Francis |first1=Katie |title=Emmerdale's Naomi Walters gets fired after feud with Rhona worsens |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a42362724/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-fired-rhona-feud/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=29 December 2022 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162509/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a42362724/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-fired-rhona-feud/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Marlon Dingle]] ([[Mark Charnock]]) hires her as an assistant chef at the Woolpack. After interacting with his daughter [[April Windsor]] ([[Amelia Flanagan]]), her first feud of the year begins with [[Rhona Goskirk]] ([[Zoë Henry]]), April's stepmother. April goes from her usual kind self to having arguments and getting secret piercings. Nicola turs Rhona against her, who "uses Naomi as a scapegoat".<ref name="April" /> She confronts Naomi, which results in a physical altercation where Marlon takes Naomi's side.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harp |first1=Justin |title=Emmerdale's Marlon takes Naomi side over Rhona after scuffle |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a42435302/emmerdale-spoilers-marlon-naomi-rhona-feud/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=9 January 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162509/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a42435302/emmerdale-spoilers-marlon-naomi-rhona-feud/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Naomi dumps Nate due to finding him boring. Naomi, who lives with Nate and [[Ryan Stocks]] (James Moore), misses her rent several times due to partying and relies on Ryan to cover it. She is gently told by Marlon that she cannot rely on him, to which she furiously decides to move out. She lies to Charles and Manpreet about needing to move out and away from her ex, who soon find out that she is lying, but decide to take her in. Digital Spy's Justin Harp remarked that she would have to "give up her partying lifestyle".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harp |first1=Justin |title=Emmerdale's Naomi Walters gets caught in lie by Charles Anderson |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a43124929/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-caught-lie-charles/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=28 February 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162521/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a43124929/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-caught-lie-charles/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
In February 2023, it was announced that ''Emmerdale'' producers had decided to reintroduce villain [[Alex Moore (Emmerdale)|Alex Moore]] ([[Liam Boyle (actor)|Liam Boyle]]) as part of a storyline for Naomi. Naomi goes on a date with Alex, "oblivious to the problems that she might be getting herself into by associating herself with Alex", which worries her father and brother.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kilkelly |first1=Daniel |title=Emmerdale brings back villain for new Naomi Walters story |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a42995571/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-alex-moore/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=21 February 2023 |archive-date=3 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230403014850/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a42995571/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-walters-alex-moore/ |url-status=live }}</ref> They begin a relationship despite their fears and Naomi feuds with them in his defence, due her "stubborn and strong-willed" ways.<ref name="Vinny" /> Naomi gets with him due to wanting an adventure and to "spice up her love life" after her boring encounter with Nate.<ref name="Fuel">{{cite news |last1=Baillie |first1=Katie |title=Emmerdale spoilers: Naomi tests Charles' temper by goading him with Alex kiss |url=https://metro.co.uk/2023/03/02/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-tests-charles-temper-with-alex-kiss-18342136/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=2 March 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629151626/https://metro.co.uk/2023/03/02/emmerdale-spoilers-naomi-tests-charles-temper-with-alex-kiss-18342136/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She also uses him as a way to goad and test Charles' patience.<ref name="Fuel" /> Producers soon confirmed that their relationship is a sham. It transpires that Alex is trying to get close to Manpreet due to her work as a doctor at the surgery, which Alex wants to steal medication from.<ref name="Revenge" />
Peter said that if her character knew the truth, she would be angry and embarrassed due to her defending him. She said: "Naomi will feel very let down that she was played by this guy, who has drawn her in and used his charm to get her on side."<ref name="Revenge">{{cite news |last1=Kilkelly |first1=Daniel |title=Emmerdale exposes Alex's hidden agenda in Naomi storyline |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a43298994/emmerdale-spoilers-alex-naomi-truth/ |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=14 March 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162532/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a43298994/emmerdale-spoilers-alex-naomi-truth/ |url-status=live }}</ref> When asked if Naomi wants revenge after it is revealed, Peter said that despite the view of her, Naomi is a "misunderstood soul".<ref name="Revenge" /> Although there is a part of Naomi that wants revenge after the truth is revealed, she is more sad than angry.<ref name="Revenge" />
===Departure=== On 25 April 2023, a day after the casting announcement of Naomi's grandmother [[Claudette Anderson|Claudette]] ([[Flo Wilson]]), it was announced that Peter had quit her role as Naomi. A spokesperson said that Peter had enjoyed her time on ''Emmerdale'', but due to wanting to play different roles, she had made the decision to leave. ''[[Radio Times]]'' reported that her exit would be set to air in summer 2023.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Daly |first1=Helen |title=Emmerdale star 'quits ITV soap after a year' |url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/emmerdale/emmerdale-naomi-exit-karene-peters-newsupdate/ |access-date=25 April 2023 |work=[[Radio Times]] |date=25 April 2023 |archive-date=25 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230425140614/https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/soaps/emmerdale/emmerdale-naomi-exit-karene-peters-newsupdate/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After her short but "eventful" tenure on the soap, it was confirmed that her exit would be written in a way that could accommodate her return in the future.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mitchell |first1=Harriet |title=Emmerdale exit for Naomi Walters as Karene Peter leaves show |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a43697079/emmerdale-naomi-walters-karene-peter-exit/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=([[Hearst Communications]]) |date=25 April 2023 |archive-date=3 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230503230325/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a43697079/emmerdale-naomi-walters-karene-peter-exit/ |url-status=live }}</ref> No details were given about her exit at the time, but ''[[Leeds Live]]'' wrote that it would be "major".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Jones |first1=Craig |title=Emmerdale star Karene Peters quits the soap after just a year |url=https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-star-karene-peters-quits-26778161 |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=[[Leeds Live]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=25 April 2023 |archive-date=1 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230501063326/https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-star-karene-peters-quits-26778161 |url-status=live }}</ref>
In the lead-up to her exit, Naomi gets to know grandmother Claudette, as well as fellow newcomer, grandfather [[Victor Anderson (Emmerdale)|Victor]] (Eddie Osei). Naomi getting to know Victor infuriates Charles, since he is an ex-prisoner who Charles detests. The ''[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]]'' hinted that Victor could have something to do with Naomi's exit and worried what it would do to Charles.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kitson |first1=Calli |title=Emmerdale spoilers: Naomi in danger ahead of her exit storyline? |url=https://metro.co.uk/2023/06/11/emmerdale-spoilers-naomis-exit-story-teased-amid-major-danger-18886351/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=11 June 2023 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630143656/https://metro.co.uk/2023/06/11/emmerdale-spoilers-naomis-exit-story-teased-amid-major-danger-18886351/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Her final weeks become "calmer waters relationship-wise" in scenes that see her paired with [[Vinny Dingle]] (Bradley Johnson).<ref name="Vinny" /> She is accused of giving Victor free pints at work and in a fury, has an argument with her bosses and quits. Victor influences Naomi by telling her that she should take money from Vinny to start a new life. Naomi then made her exit from the village on 6 July 2023.<ref name="Headstrong">{{cite news |last1=Haasler |first1=Sue |title=Emmerdale spoilers: Naomi's exit story confirmed as she takes horrible action |url=https://metro.co.uk/2023/06/28/emmerdale-spoilers-naomis-exit-story-confirmed-as-she-takes-action-19028937/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=28 June 2023 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630011156/https://metro.co.uk/2023/06/28/emmerdale-spoilers-naomis-exit-story-confirmed-as-she-takes-action-19028937/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Mathurin posted a tribute to Peter following her departure from the soap. He stated that although Naomi was always written to be a problem for Charles, he felt Peter had portrayed Naomi in a way that made viewers instead sympathise with Naomi. He added: "You are a beautiful human being who knows her path. I really admire that. Stay on it. You’re definitely heading in the right direction. PEACE MI DAWTA!"<ref name="Tribute">{{cite news |last1=Rowan |first1=Iona |title=Emmerdale's Kevin Mathurin pays tribute after co-star exit |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/a44526561/emmerdale-kevin-mathurin-karene-peter-tribute/ |access-date=24 March 2026 |work=[[Digital Spy]]}}</ref> Peter responded to Mathurin's post, expressing her admiration for him.<ref name="Tribute" />
==Reception== ''Metro''{{'}}s Sue Haasler described Naomi as "a feisty character with quite a temper",<ref>{{cite news |last1=Haasler |first1=Sue |title=Emmerdale star Karene Peter says Naomi is set for 'angry revenge' as Alex's lies are confirmed |url=https://metro.co.uk/2023/03/16/emmerdale-karene-peter-on-naomis-revenge-as-alexs-lies-are-confirmed-18452374/ |access-date=30 June 2023 |work=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]] |publisher=([[DMG Media]]) |date=16 March 2023 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630193336/https://metro.co.uk/2023/03/16/emmerdale-karene-peter-on-naomis-revenge-as-alexs-lies-are-confirmed-18452374/ |url-status=live }}</ref> as well as "a headstrong young woman who insists on making her own decisions in life".<ref name="Headstrong" /> ''Leeds Live'' writer Phoebe Fuller called Naomi a "nasty, grumpy" person and likened her to serial killer [[Meena Jutla]] ([[Paige Sandhu]]).<ref name="Nasty" /> Viewers echoed Fuller's comments, describing her as dangerous and "a horrible character [who] thinks the world revolves round her".<ref name="Nasty" /> Naomi proved to be more unpopular after her feud with Manpreet, with viewers having "well and truly had enough of her".<ref name="Southerners" /> Her involvement in Nicola's attack further fuelled dislike towards Naomi, with viewers calling for the "nasty and unlikeable" character to be axed.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mwitumwa |first1=Monde |title=Emmerdale fans call for Naomi to be axed from soap as they slam 'dreadful' storyline |url=https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-call-naomi-axed-24910175 |access-date=28 June 2023 |work=[[Leeds Live]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=1 September 2022 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162545/https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-call-naomi-axed-24910175 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Viewers "were left exasperated" after Naomi's lies to Charles and Manpreet about her reasons for moving out.<ref name="Looms">{{cite news |last1=Scheer |first1=Victoria |title=Emmerdale fans call for character to be axed as sad exit looms |url=https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-call-character-axed-26356350 |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Leeds Live]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=28 February 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162532/https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-call-character-axed-26356350 |url-status=live }}</ref> She was described as a "grade A sponger who spends all her money on a good time".<ref name="Looms" /> Sarah Smith, writing for ''Entertainment Daily'' branded Naomi "a selfish liar".<ref name="Irritating" /> Others were entertained by her nasty nature and wished for her to become a serial killer.<ref name="Looms" /> After Alex's lies to Naomi are revealed, viewers believed that her reaction was out of character. They found her to be unusually gullible and stupid and noted that she should not have believed him.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Banner |first1=Megan |title=Emmerdale fans dub Naomi as 'gullible' after Alex reveals evil plot |url=https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-dub-naomi-gullible-26527698 |access-date=29 June 2023 |work=[[Leeds Live]] |publisher=([[Reach plc]]) |date=21 March 2023 |archive-date=29 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629162520/https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/news/celebs-tv/emmerdale-fans-dub-naomi-gullible-26527698 |url-status=live }}</ref>
==References== {{Reflist}}
==External links== * [https://www.itv.com/emmerdale/articles/naomi-walters Naomi Walters] at [[itv.com]]
{{Emmerdale characters|past}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Walters, Naomi}} [[Category:Emmerdale characters]] [[Category:British female characters in soap operas]] [[Category:Fictional bartenders in soap operas]] [[Category:Fictional Black British people]] [[Category:Fictional Caribbean people]] [[Category:Fictional chefs in soap operas]] [[Category:Fictional criminals in soap operas]] [[Category:Television characters introduced in 2022]]