The cast of EastEnders have paid tribute to ‘icon’ Natalie Cassidy, following the announcement she is set to leave her role as Sonia Fowler nearly 32 years after her debut.
The BBC announced news of Natalie’s shock departure with an accompanying statement from the actress, who said it was ‘time to move on to pastures new’.
‘I feel extremely sad to be writing this, but also very excited,’ said Natalie, who originally joined the show as a 10-year-old child in 1993.
‘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.’
Since then, a number of Natalie’s co-stars have taken to social media to celebrate her stint on Albert Square.
Jacqueline Jossa, who plays Lauren Branning, wrote on her Instagram Story: ‘It breaks my heart as a massive fan of the show but I can’t wait to continue to watch you smash it my love @natcassi
‘Always been an inspiration to me, so lucky to have worked with you and have you as a cousin on the best square around!
“Love you loads it feels real now.’
Patsy Palmer, who plays Sonia’s on-screen sister Bianca Jackson, also posted on her Story: ‘Love you sister.’
After the official EastEnders’ Instagram account also posted about the news, many stars flooded the comments with support for Natalie.
Callum Highway actor Tony Clay wrote: ‘Icon 😘❤️ x.’
Milly Zero, who played Dotty Cotton, commented: ‘Congratulations on creating an icon & your gonna smash it out there @natcass1 xxx.’
Honey Mitchell star Emma Barton left a series of heart emojis, as did Laura Doddington, who plays Nicola Mitchell and Penny Branning actress Kitty Castledine.
Speaking about Natalie’s exit, EastEnders’ executive producer Chris Clenshaw said in a statement: ‘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 [minute] 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 soap fans know, Sonia is at currently the centre of a big story as she attempts to figure out why sister Bianca confessed to the murder of Debbie Colwell.
