After three decades of the iconic Sonia Fowler, Natalie Cassidy is waving goodbye to Walford. The actress, who made her EastEnders debut back in 1993, has quit the BBC One soap after 32 years. Sonia, as viewers know, is at the centre of a big story right now as she attempts to figure out why sister Bianca Jackson confessed to the murder of Debbie Colwell. Little does she know, however, that current partner Reiss is actually the killer – and he’s been keeping Bianca prisoner at a secret lockup!.

As to whether or not Sonia figures out the truth and exposes Reiss remains to be seen but time is running out, with Natalie’s final scenes set to air in and around EastEnders’ 40th anniversary next month. ‘I feel extremely sad to be writing this, but also very excited,’ said the soap star in a statement shared with 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.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video. Up Next. ‘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.’. EastEnders’ Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw added: ‘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.’.

Metro has reached out to EastEnders for comment. EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. Arrow MORE: Bianca’s fate ‘confirmed’ in EastEnders as Sonia makes a big decision.

Arrow MORE: EastEnders murder bombshell as an ambulance races to the Square. Arrow MORE: ‘We were Black kids at a majority-white school – that feeling never leaves you’. Sign up for exclusive spoilers and interviews, handpicked by our Soaps Editor. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy.