EastEnders fans are fearing the worst after it was confirmed that Sonia Fowler actress Natalie Cassidy had quit her role after more than 30 years on the BBC soap
EastEnders fans are fearing the worst after it was confirmed that Sonia Fowler actress Natalie Cassidy had quit her role (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
There’s a worrying theory about how EastEnders legend Sonia Fowler will be leaving the BBC soap.
Actress Natalie Cassidy has announced her exit, confirming her plans to leave the role after more than 30 years. Natalie joined the soap as a child with the Jackson clan, and 32 years on the “sad but excited” star of the show is bowing out.
With bosses confirming she will take centre stage during the 40th anniversary week in February, it’s got fans talking about whether she might be killed off. She’s set to film her final scenes soon meaning she likely won’t leave in the big week – unless there is a last-minute edit of course, not to mention the live episode.
Pregnant Sonia was recently released from prison after being found not guilty for the murder of Debbie Colwell. Debbie’s real killer is her husband, Sonia’s fiancé, Reiss Colwell – but he has framed Sonia’s sister Bianca Jackson while holding her hostage.
Now fans are fearing that Sonia could die as a result of her drama with Reiss, or maybe in a tie-in to the 40th birthday episodes. Taking to X, fans theorised that Sonia would die either by murder at the hands of killer Reiss, or maybe a sad twist with her unborn baby.
One fan posted: “I’m calling it. Since the announcement of Natalie’s departure, Sonia is either going to die whilst giving birth or at the hands of Reece. She better blow that damn trumpet one last time.” Another agreed: “I actually think they’re gonna kill Sonia off.”
A third fan posted: “Reiss to kill Sonia now Natalie Cassidy is leaving. Would be a great way to go out. Cheers Natalie Cassidy you’re a legend.” A fourth fan said: “Is Sonia gonna be killed off or is she gonna kill Reiss and go to prison for it?” as another commented: “They can’t kill her off.”
There’s a worrying theory about how EastEnders legend Sonia Fowler will be leaving the BBC soap ( Image:
BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron) In a statement, Natalie shared her exit with soap boss Chris Clenshaw also confirming the news. She said: “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.” She continued to The Sun: “See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten.”
Natalie will be filming her final scenes of the show in February around the highly-anticipated 40th anniversary week. She reportedly told bosses of her decision to leave last summer.
Speaking about Natalie’s departure, boss Chris Clenshaw announced: “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.”
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.* Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .