Longtime EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has made it abundantly clear that if the BBC ever decides to recast her character, Sonia Fowler, she won’t take it lightly.
The actress, who has played Sonia for an incredible 32 years, recently expressed her deep attachment to the role,
even joking that she would storm Elstree Studios “with a sledgehammer” if another actress was brought in to replace her.
Cassidy’s departure from the beloved BBC soap was confirmed earlier this year, leaving fans heartbroken at the thought of losing one of Walford’s most iconic figures.
Having been part of the show since childhood, Sonia has been central to numerous gripping storylines, from a shocking teenage pregnancy to her struggles with sexuality.
More recently, Sonia found herself at the heart of a murder case,
arrested and charged for the killing of Debbie Colwell—completely unaware that her own fiancé, Reiss Colwell, was the true culprit.
A Memorable Exit for Sonia Fowler
After enduring a tense trial, Sonia was ultimately found not guilty, and she soon uncovered the shocking truth about Reiss’ deception. Her story took another dramatic turn when she became one of the key figures in EastEnders’ 40th anniversary live episode, going into labor while trapped inside the Queen Vic. The unforgettable moment ensured that Sonia remained a core part of the soap’s history.
Although Cassidy is stepping away from the show, she has hinted that she isn’t entirely closing the door on her EastEnders journey. She has expressed a desire to return for the 50th anniversary, suggesting that her exit may not be a permanent one. However, one thing she is adamant about is that if Sonia’s story is ever revisited, it should be her playing the role—no one else.
“Sonia Could Die Off-Screen”
Speaking to The Sun, Cassidy shared her firm stance on the idea of a recast. “If they recast Sonia, I’m going to Borehamwood with a sledgehammer,” she joked, making it clear how protective she feels over the character. If she had to choose, she’d rather Sonia be written out permanently than see another actress step into her shoes.
“She could die off-screen,” Cassidy added, playfully imagining a classic soap opera-style moment where another character rushes in with shocking news. “We could be watching it one night and, you know the old phone call: Kathy runs in saying, ‘Ian, I’ve just had a message—Sonia’s dead!’”
While Cassidy’s comments were lighthearted, they underline just how deeply she values her long-standing connection to EastEnders.
A New Chapter for Natalie Cassidy
Though her departure from EastEnders marks the end of an era, Cassidy is already embracing new ventures. She recently announced that she has written a book titled Happy Days, which is set for release in October. The book will provide a candid look into her life—her experiences growing up in the public eye, navigating parenthood, dealing with loss, and finding moments of joy along the way.
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