EastEnders actor Natalie Cassidy has quit the BBC One soap.
The actor, who has played Sonia Fowler on the show on-and-off since 1993, made the announcement ahead of the highly-anticipated 40th anniversary next month.
In a statement (via The Sun), she 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.
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“Thank you to Chris Clenshaw for the opportunity to be such a big part of the 40th anniversary – it’s an honour. See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten.”
Soap boss Clenshaw added: “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.”
More on this story to follow…
EastEnders airs on Mondays-Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One. The show also streams on BBC iPlayer, where most episodes drop early at 6am ahead of their TV broadcast.
Read more EastEnders spoilers on our dedicated homepage
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