EastEnders fans were sad to see Sonia Fowler go, but for Natalie Cassidy, the timing felt right. After decades in Walford, she’s finally opened up about why she walked away and this time, she’s being real. Keep scrolling to know more.
EastEnders Natalie Says She Doesn’t Miss It
Natalie joined EastEnders in 1993 as a teen, growing up on the Square as Sonia. Over the years, she faced tough storylines and emotional highs. But after thirty years, she says the show isn’t something she misses. Not the show, not the schedule. What she does miss, though, is the people. “It’s full on,” she told Kellie Bright on her podcast.
It wasn’t a snap decision. Natalie had felt the pressure building for a while. The long days and constant pressure made her step back. Most of all, she wanted real time with her kids. She also craved space to try something different. She used her podcast, Life With Nat, to open up and take control of her story. She’s not bitter about the exit. She’s simply looking for a change of pace.
She’s Happy Just Being Herself Again
Natalie made it clear that she still loves acting. She still remembers the joy of getting scripts and the energy on set. But she admitted something that many actors don’t: she never planned this life. “I fell into it,” she said. She started young, and before she knew it, it had become her world.
Now, she’s taking a breath. She’s not chasing storylines or trying to prove anything. She’s enjoying quiet mornings. She’s focusing on herself. “I do feel happier doing the things I’m doing now,” she said. That peace didn’t come overnight. She also praised Kellie’s work as Linda during the podcast and said it genuinely moved her.
Some of the scenes, especially the ones about addiction, hit her hard and even made her cry.“You’re incredible,” she said, completely moved. It was one actress appreciating another, without filter.
Natalie may have stepped away from Walford, but to fans, she’ll always be Sonia. And the truth is, that legacy won’t fade. She gave three decades to one of Britain’s most iconic soaps. That’s not something viewers will forget. For more EastEnders updates and soap news, follow Soap Opera Daily.