Walford legend Natalie Cassidy who quit back in February opens up on her first Christmas away from the soap, whether she’d consider a return to Albert Square any time soon
Natalie has one burning ambition now she’s left the soap, she tells the Mirror(Image: Hoda Davaine/Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Former EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy, who left Albert Square after a whopping 32 years as Sonia Fowler, says she is enjoying being ‘open’ to new opportunities and possibilities, after leaving the soap which she practically grew up on.
The mum of two of quit her iconic role with her emotional final scenes airing in April 2025 during the show’s 40th anniversary, after a major storyline that saw her leave Albert Square with her sister Bianca.
In an exclusive catch-up with the Mirror, she reveals her true thoughts about a potential return to the BBC soap, what she misses about it – and shares one big dream post-EastEnders that might just surprise a lot of her telly fans…
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The actress has enjoyed having more time with her kids in the run-up to Christmas(Image: Karwai Tang, WireImagevia Getty Images)
How does it feel with this being your first Christmas out of EastEnders?
I’m really looking forward to watching Christmas Day as a viewer – and not knowing what’s going on. That’s actually really nice. It’s also really lovely having more time to prepare for Christmas and to be around for the children. I do miss those cold October nights on Albert Square, filming Christmas early, though – that feeling is very special.
Corrie and Emmerdale are doing a cross-over episode soon – can you see that happening with EastEnders and another soap?
I’m really interested to see how the crossover works. Someone suggested EastEnders and Casualty, which I think is a brilliant idea. I’d definitely watch that.
Natalie grew up on the soap, which she left back in February(Image: BBC)
What are your hopes for 2026, and do you have any resolutions?
I don’t believe in resolutions, you know – I think they put too much pressure on people. I’m not giving anything up! I do want to exercise a bit more for health reasons, and I’d love to do more live shows. Comedy is a big hope for me, so if a sitcom comes along, that would be a dream.
Can you see yourself returning to EastEnders any time soon?
Not anytime soon, no. I only left in February, and it’s still very early days. I’m enjoying being open and doing different things. But it’s my second home and very close to my heart, so… you never know.
Natalie Cassidy was speaking to Sky Bingo to discuss new research which lifts the lid on the Christmas telly moments and festive Huns that Brits love most
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