Natalie Cassidy has announced that she has quit EastEnders after more than 31 years in the role of Sonia Fowler.
Having made her debut as part of the new Jackson family in December 1993, Sonia has gone on to become a Walford icon and has been instrumental to some of the Square's biggest storylines over the last three decades.
Most recently Sonia has found herself in prison on suspicion of murdering the wife of her partner Reiss (Jonny Freeman), unaware that he in fact smothered his comatose spouse to death with a pillow.
Although the nature of Sonia's exit has yet to be revealed, it has been confirmed that she will be filming her final scenes in around three weeks, which is when the soap will go live for an episode as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations.
The timing has led to speculation that Sonia could be killed off in the week's special episodes, which will also see The Vic go up in flames and Grant Mitchell (Ross Kemp) return to Walford.
A source told The Sun: "The 40th week was always going to be shocking, but could they really kill off Sonia Fowler?
"Viewers have watched her grow up on screen and she's been at the heart of some of the soap's biggest storylines.
"It would be a proper soap shocker if she was to die during the 40th but equally it will be one that viewers will never ever forget."
In a statement, Cassidy said: "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. EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career and I will continue to love the show.
"Thank you to Chris Clenshaw (executive producer) for the opportunity to be such a big part of the 40th anniversary – it's an honour. See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten."
Clenshaw said: "Over the last 31 years in EastEnders, Natalie has been involved in some of the show's most iconic and explosive storylines. Her portrayal of Sonia has made her a firm fan favourite amongst the viewers.
"I won't be revealing the finite details relating to her exit, but I can say that she will take a central role in the 40th anniversary storylines in a week of truly unmissable drama that will change the lives of those in Walford forever.
"I'd like to thank Natalie for her time at EastEnders, and I wish her all the best for the future."
The 40th anniversary week of episodes begins on Monday, February 17.
Neil Wilkes
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