Natalie Cassidy has revealed she will be leaving EastEnders after an impressive 32-year stint as Sonia Jackson. The actress is set to depart following the soap’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Her character, currently expecting a child with murderer Reiss Colwell, remains oblivious to his dark past, including the killing of his ex-wife.
Although Sonia was charged with the crime, she was acquitted when Reiss presented evidence of her sister Bianca’s confession, reports the Mirror.
Reflecting on her time in Albert Square, Natalie expressed mixed emotions: “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. EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career and I will continue to love the show.
“Thank you to Chris Clenshaw for the opportunity to be such a big part of the 40th anniversary – it’s an honour.”
She affectionately concluded: “See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten.”
Cassidy is scheduled to film her final scenes in February during the much-anticipated anniversary week. It’s understood that she informed the showrunners of her decision last summer.
Amid speculation about her character’s fate, a source suggested: “It would be a proper soap shocker if she was to die during the 40th but equally it will be one that viewers will never ever forget.”
Fans have expressed their dismay at the news, with social media reactions such as “Oh, this is sad.”
A second penned: “Just confirmed – Natalie Cassidy is leaving as Sonia Fowler during the 40th anniversary week. They can’t kill her off,” another dismayed user expressed.
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