Natalie Cassidy has opened up about her exit from EastEnders. The actress has decided to quit the BBC soap after over 30 years playing Sonia Jackson. It is not known how Sonia will leave the show but there have been theories she could die as part of the soap's 40th anniversary. Sonia has been part of some huge storylines, most recently nearly ending up in prison for the murder of Reiss' wife Debbie, which we know Reese actually committed in a bid to get rid of his wife - who was in a coma - for good.

Speaking about her exit, Natalie revealed she can't "worry" about what will happen to her character. It has been confirmed she will play a big part in the soap's milestone anniversary, but how it happens remains to be seen. "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.'".

Explaining her decision to leave the show, Natalie said EastEnders would always be 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.". Speaking previously about her exit from the Square, Natalie wrote: "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.".

Speaking about Natalie's departure, boss Chris Clenshaw said: "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.".