The soap legend has reportedly quit her role only weeks before the show’s 40th anniversary
EastEnders icon Natalie Cassidy is reportedly set leave her role as Sonia Fowler after an impressive 32-year run on the BBC soap. Ever since she stepped into Albert Square with the Jackson family back in 1993, the beloved actress has become a cornerstone of the show.
Currently, her character Sonia finds herself enmeshed in a tantalising murder plot after her partner Reiss Colwell (played by Jonny Freeman) killed his comatose wife Debbie. Although previously arrested and jailed while awaiting trial for the alleged crime, Sonia was acquitted by a jury, allowing her to return to Walford.
The ongoing saga intensified after Sonia’s sister Bianca Jackson (portrayed by Patsy Palmer) made a false murder confession to escape from Reiss’s clutches. Now, pregnant Sonia is on a mission to unearth the real motives behind Bianca’s actions, with the storyline yet to reach its gripping conclusion.
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In a heartfelt statement published by The Sun, Cassidy expressed mixed emotions about her departure: “I feel extremely sad to be writing this, but also very excited. After another 11 solid years back on The Square, I have decided it’s time to move on to pastures new.”
Reflecting on her bond with the programme, she continued: “EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career and I will continue to love the show,” reports Plymouth Live.
Cassidy went on to thank executive producer Chris Clenshaw: “Thank you to Chris Clenshaw for the opportunity to be such a big part of the 40th anniversary – it’s an honour. See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten.”
Executive producer Clenshaw has praised Natalie’s 31-year tenure on EastEnders, telling the publication: “Over the last 31 years in EastEnders, Natalie has been involved in some of the show’s most iconic and explosive storylines. Her portrayal of Sonia has made her a firm fan favourite amongst the viewers.”
He continued: “I won’t be revealing the finite details relating to her exit, but I can say that she will take a central role in the 40th anniversary storylines in a week of truly unmissable drama that will change the lives of those in Walford forever. I’d like to thank Natalie for her time at EastEnders, and I wish her all the best for the future.”
As EastEnders approaches its 40th anniversary on February 19, 2025, fans are promised an explosive week, including a live episode.
The BBC press office has been contacted for further comment.
EastEnders airs Monday – Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.