EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has confirmed she has left the BBC One soap.
The actress, best known for playing Sonia Fowler in the show, announced her departure back in January, weeks before the soap’s 40th anniversary.
At the time, show boss Chris Clenshaw said: ‘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.
‘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.’
During the soap’s live episode, Sonia gave birth to a baby girl called Julia, moments after watching her partner Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman) die. The beloved character is now also dealing with the aftermath of Martin Fowler’s (James Bye) death, and will soon attend his funeral.
Just how Sonia leaves Walford remains to be seen, but star Natalie Cassidy recently confirmed that she has said goodbye to her soap alter-ego, which means her final scenes certainly aren’t far away.
‘I went to the nail shop this morning to get new nails and I got my hair done, because yesterday I left EastEnders’, Natalie said on her and Joanna Page’s podcast Off The Telly.
‘I feel really good, I feel really excited. It was a brilliant day at work. I haven’t shed a tear, which is strange. I don’t know when that’s coming.
‘But I’ve had the most beautiful presents and cards from everybody. We had a soiree last night which was absolutely lovely. I did my scenes that were really lovely. And it’s just brilliant. I feel really excited now for the next chapter.’
Before Sonia departs, she will welcome her daughter Bex Fowler (Jasmine Armfield) back to Albert Square, who is returning for Martin’s funeral.
Martin’s niece Vicki (Alice Haig) is also heading home, and she will be joined by new faces Ross (Alex Walkinshaw), and his son Joel (Max Murray).
