Natalie Cassidy admits real reason for BBC EastEnders exit is down to one event this year
Natalie Cassidy has shared her thoughts on leaving EastEnders. The actress, who has portrayed Sonia Jackson for over three decades, is set to depart the BBC soap.
While it remains uncertain how Sonia will exit the show, there's speculation that her character could meet a tragic end as part of the soap's 40th anniversary celebrations. Sonia has been at the centre of several major plotlines, including a recent near-miss with prison for the murder of Reiss' wife Debbie, a crime actually committed by Reese in an attempt to permanently rid himself of his comatose wife.
Discussing her departure, Natalie admitted she can't "worry" about her character's fate. She confirmed that Sonia will play a significant role in the soap's landmark anniversary, but the specifics are yet to be revealed.
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"I've got to remember in my head that when, as an actress, you make a decision to leave a show like this, you can't hypothesise or worry about what's going to happen to your character," she told The Sun on Sunday, "That is down to the boss and the storyliners as the fate of Sonia is in their hands. I've had to take a deep breath, and go, 'I've made my decision, I've just got to let it play out.'"
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Explaining her decision to leave, Natalie expressed that EastEnders will always hold a special place in her heart. She said: "I'm 42 this year, I just feel like it's time to be brave. You don't want to get to 70 and think, 'I never tried that'. I've loved this programme with all my heart. I started at ten, it's in my bones, it's in my heart."
Natalie discussed her departure from Albert Square previously, stating: "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. See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten."
Show boss Chris Clenshaw commented on Natalie's exit, expressing: "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."