Natalie Cassidy Drops Big Hint About Sonia Fowler’s EastEnders Comeback

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has hinted that it may not be the end for her iconic character Sonia Fowler, despite her recent exit announcement

EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy said she’s “never going to say goodbye” to Sonia Fowler following 32 on-off years on Albert Square.

The 41-year-old actress is set to make her imminent on-screen exit, though has hinted that Sonia could make a return when the time is right.

Following a dramatic time on the soap which has included Sonia’s live birth during the soap’s 40th anniversary week, chaos caused by her late fiancé Reiss Colwell (played by Jonny Freeman), and the surprise appearance of her father, Natalie insists Sonia is keen for a new beginning.

Reflecting on her final scenes, she said she was happy to have her “sister” Patsy Palmer by her side, amid the continuous drama between Sonia and Patsy’s character Bianca Jackson.

In an interview with Best Magazine, Natalie said: “I get on so well with Patsy and it was just lovely to be with her and have such a laugh. We’ve known each other for such a long time and we are like sisters.”

Looking ahead, she speculated about future plots, adding: “You never know what’s going to happen with Sonia and Bianca, maybe they’ll turn up in the Square in 10 years time dripping in diamonds.”

Natalie also remarked that she can’t say goodbye to Sonia for good as the character is “ingrained in me”.

“So, while I’m saying goodbye on screen for now, Sonia is always there, knocking about,” she continued.

Natalie’s decision to leave the show comes as she explores new opportunities, including a fresh presenting role on Channel 4.

As part of the four-part series What’s the Big Deal?, she investigates the latest internet crazes from lion’s mane mushrooms to LED masks.

Speaking about her venture, she said: “I get sucked into things, which happens a lot around Christmas. What’s The Big Deal? is designed to prevent these purchases.

“And also make people think a bit harder before they buy in a cost of living crisis, and when it’s so easy to click and buy these days, we think it’s an important programme.”

Recently asked about potentially joining the cast of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, Natalie admitted that while it wasn’t on her radar, she could change her mind should financial pressures ever occur.

She said on This Morning: “I would rather not at the moment, but you never know do you? If a big tax bill comes in, I might get in there!”.