EastEnders actress Natalie Cassidy has hinted that it may not be over for good for Sonia Fowler on Albert Square, just weeks after leaving.
The 41-year-old has played her iconic character on and off for 32 years, and will make her on-screen exit imminently.
Following her live birth during the 40th anniversary week, a chaotic chapter with her late fiancé Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman) and the unexpected arrival of her father, Natalie says her character will be craving a fresh start.
Discussing her final scenes, she expressed joy at having her "sister" Patsy Palmer by her side, following recent drama between Sonia and Bianca Jackson (Patsy's character).
She told Best Magazine: "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."
Discussing a potential future storyline, she added: "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 went on to say she's "never going to say goodbye" to her character because she's "ingrained in me".
"So, while I'm saying goodbye on screen for now, Sonia is always there, knocking about," she added.
The actress made her decision to leave the soap so she can "move on to pastures new", which has included a new presenting role on Channel 4.
As part of the four-part series titled What's the Big Deal?, Natalie delves into the world of viral products and trends, examining everything from ice baths to lion's mane mushrooms and LED face masks.
"I get sucked into things, which happens a lot around Christmas. What's The Big Deal? is designed to prevent these purchases," she shared.
"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 quizzed on another potential new job, Natalie said she could be persuaded to join I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! if she faced money issues.
"I would rather not at the moment," she said on This Morning. "But you never know do you?! If a big tax bill comes in, I might get in there!”.
EastEnders continues tonight at 7.30pm on BBC One.
English (United States) ·