After nearly 32 years of bringing life to the beloved character Sonia Fowler, actress Natalie Cassidy is saying goodbye to EastEnders. The 41-year-old star, who first graced our screens as the feisty Sonia back in 1993 when she was just ten years old, has confirmed her departure from the iconic BBC soap. Her farewell will coincide with the show's milestone 40th anniversary celebrations, set to kick off on February 17, 2025.
Having initially left the show in 2007, Natalie made her comeback as Sonia for various stints, including returning for the 40th anniversary. Her character has been central to gripping storylines, most recently embroiled in the mystery surrounding her partner, Reiss Colwell, who has hidden dark secrets. She faces dramatic moments, unaware of the danger lurking behind the smile of her partner.
"I feel extremely sad to be writing this, but also very excited," Cassidy stated in her farewell announcement reported by The Sun. "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. See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten."
Her exit marks the end of one of the longest-running portrayals on the show. Producers have cryptically hinted at the potential fate of Sonia, stating she will take on significant roles during the anniversary week. With her current storyline involving her pregnancy with Reiss's child—unbeknownst to her, he is the murderer of his ex-wife Debbie—the stakes are exceptionally high.
Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders' Executive Producer, praised Natalie’s contributions, saying, "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 among the viewers." He also hinted at the shocking developments viewers can expect, avoiding details but promising it will be unmissable.
Rumors are swirling among fans about whether Sonia may meet her demise during the anniversary episodes. An insider commented, "It would be a proper soap shocker if she was to die during the 40th but equally it will be one they will never forget." The buzz around possible character deaths has fans on the edge of their seats, especially as individual storylines culminate dramatically during this landmark occasion.
Currently, Sonia is portrayed as pregnant, grappling with the knowledge of her sister, Bianca Butcher, who had once falsely confessed to the murder of Debbie Colwell due to being manipulated by Reiss. The storyline adds layers of suspense as Sonia inches closer to discovering the truth about Reiss and the fate of her sister. This intrigue lays the groundwork for her character’s fate as the anniversary episode approaches.
A dramatic explosion at the iconic Queen Vic pub will feature during the celebratory week, promising breathtaking scenes and thrilling cliffhangers. An insider mentioned, "There are so many twists and turns leading up to the 40th anniversary week, and things will unravel as Sonia prepares to give birth." The impending chaos at the Queen Vic will entangle numerous characters, heightening anticipation for the special week.
Having spent the past years juggling theater roles, fitness projects, and other television endeavors, Natalie Cassidy has carved out quite the career outside of Albert Square. From launching fitness DVDs to starring on shows like Motherland, her versatility is evident. Yet, her heart seems to remain firmly rooted within EastEnders, as she reminisces about her fond memories.
The spirited fan reactions to Cassidy's departure echo sentiments across social media, with many expressing sorrow at losing such a cherished character. Viewers have been vocal about their feelings, writing, "Oh, this is sad" and hues of disbelief colored the online discourse, with some fearing for the character's survival.
With death hanging over the storyline and significant character arcs poised to explode, the soap promises to deliver unforgettable moments. The coming weeks will reveal whether Sonia makes it out alive, leaving fans both hopeful and apprehensive for what’s to come.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30 PM on BBC One. The series has captivated fans for decades, and as we prepare for this momentous anniversary, the legacy of characters like Sonia Fowler will undoubtedly linger long after the last scene is aired.