EastEnders icon Natalie Cassidy opened up about her exit from the popular BBC soap during an appearance on Saturday Kitchen
EastEnders legend Natalie Cassidy has opened up about her feelings since leaving the iconic soap, revealing she’s not pining for Albert Square just yet.
The 41-year-old star, best known as Sonia Fowler on the BBC drama, joined Saturday Kitchen with culinary maestros Donal Skehan, Jeremy Lee and wine connoisseur Olly Smith.
During the show, host Matt Tebbutt probed Natalie on her recent departure, to which she indicated a sense of relief at taking a break from her character.
Matt asked: “So let’s talk about EastEnders. Are you missing it?” Natalie hesitated before answering: “Err not just yet! It feels like I’m still on a break if you like because I’ve only been gone a month or so,” reports Plymouth Live.
Natalie Cassidy admitted that she isn’t missing EastEnders just yet(Image: BBC)
Jumping in, Matt remarked: “And you weren’t killed off!” To which Natalie responded with gratitude: “No, very very grateful that the door has been left open, I really am. But you never know.”
She further reflected: “It’s nice to rest characters as well! Sonia has been around since 1993, people have grown up with her, you know. It’s nice to have a rest,” acknowledging the longevity of her role.
Having first graced the screen as Sonia back in 1993, Natalie has been at the heart of many major plots, tackling issues from teen pregnancy to family strife and miscarriages of justice.
Natalie chatting to the other guests
In a heartfelt statement, Natalie shared her bittersweet sentiments about bidding farewell to the show: “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.”
Natalie also expressed her thanks to the show’s executive producer, Chris Clenshaw, for making her a key part of the anniversary celebrations that aired in February.
Natalie has played Sonia Fowler in EastEnders since 1993(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Chris Clenshaw lauded Natalie’s contribution, highlighting her role in some of the show’s most memorable and dramatic plots, and recognised her as a popular favourite among viewers.
Despite leaving the show, Natalie is still keeping busy. She continues to host her own podcast and also presents Channel 4’s consumer programme What’s The Big Deal? where she tests out the latest gadgets.
