Natalie Cassidy Opens Up About EastEnders Legends and Her Big Exit
Natalie Cassidy, best known as Sonia Fowler on EastEnders for over 30 years, has reflected on her iconic soap stint and the legendary stars she worked alongside. In a chat with Prima magazine, the actress recalled her close bond with veteran actresses like Wendy Richard, Barbara Windsor, and June Brown.
“Obviously the elders, because I am an old soul,” Cassidy said. “I always connected with Wendy Richards and Barbara Windsor, and I would say that June Brown was my dearest, oldest friend.”
Sadly, all three are no longer with us. Barbara Windsor, famous for playing Peggy Mitchell, passed away in 2020. June Brown, who brought Dot Cotton to life into her 90s, died in 2022. Wendy Richard, the original Pauline Fowler, died back in 2009.
Why Natalie Walked Away from EastEnders
Natalie stepped away from the BBC soap earlier this year, embracing freedom after decades of playing the grounded, hardworking Sonia.
“Sonia isn’t the most glamorous of characters, bless her, but I wanted to stay true to her,” Cassidy admitted. “I never dyed my hair or wore extensions because she was just an NHS worker struggling with money.
“Leaving the show, I thought, ‘I want to be glam. I want coloured nails. I want to feel like me.’ I feel like my face has changed since leaving, too. Playing Sonia was quite sad and angry, so my frown lines have faded, which is lovely.”
From Child Star to Soap Veteran
First appearing as Sonia in 1993, Cassidy left the show in 2007, returning on and off until 2014. Turning 40 was a major turning point for her decision to quit for good.
“Turning 40 is a milestone,” she said. “You know who you are, where you are, and who your friends are. After so long in the business, I needed to be free and open to new things.”
“EastEnders is a brilliant job, but it chains you. You don’t have time to plan anything else—it takes over your whole life.”
Despite her freedom, Natalie says Albert Square will always hold a special place in her heart.
What’s Next for Natalie Cassidy?
Off-screen, Cassidy is shaking up her career. Recently, she starred in the stage production of Inside No. 9 in Canterbury—her first theatre role in over a decade.
“It’s a real moment for me,” she shared on Instagram. “I haven’t been on stage for over 10 years, so this is another tick on my list. Can’t wait to see it myself! It’s touring, so check if it’s near you!”
The November 2025 issue of Prima featuring Natalie Cassidy is now out.
