EastEnders' Natalie Cassidy lands surprising new job in big step away from soap after exit

EastEnders star has landed a new role away from the soap. The actress has officially wrapped up her time on the show. First appearing in the role back in 1993, she’s been part of the soap making her one of the show’s most recognisable and long-standing characters.

The soap star has already said her goodbyes to Walford, announcing her decision with a heartfelt message to fans. She is said to made the decision to quit after the show’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Now, Natalie is heading in a different direction, towards comedy. This summer, she’ll appear as a special guest at Pappy’s Flatshare Slamdown, a popular live comedy gig in London. Podcast hosts Matthew Crosby, Ben Clark and Tom Parry will be joined on stage by Walford legend Natalie and comedian Leah Davis during their live show on May 27, at The Phoenix Pub in Cavendish Square – with tickets already on sale.

On , the podcast announced Natalie's introduction, writing: "PAPPY’S FLATSHARE SLAMDOWN, is back at the Phoenix Pub for TWO live shows on May 27th and June 2nd!"

Still reeling from Reiss's death, Sonia is about to make a major decision in upcoming episodes. who insists on speaking with her after tracking her down. This encounter leads Sonia to a shocking revelation. Within days, she finds herself contemplating a life-altering choice – and possibly leaving Walford for good.

The actress is said to have already finished filming her final scenes. Earlier this year, she opened up about leaving the show for good saying: "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. 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 for the opportunity to be such a big part of the 40th anniversary – it’s an honour."

She added: "See ya, Sonia, going but never forgotten." Thanks to Natalie's incredible acting skills, Sonia has been a staple character of EastEnders since her debut in 1993. Over the years, she has been at the heart of numerous memorable storylines, evolving from a troubled teenager into one of Walford’s matriarchs.

From her tumultuous relationship with her first husband, Martin Fowler, to dealing with the trauma of her sister Bianca’s struggles, Sonia has often found herself acting as the glue that holds her family together.

As a mother of two, Natalie has played her character on-and-off and has appeared on reality shows (2009), Celebrity (2012) and The Masked Singer (2025) during her breaks, Outside of her career, the actress who she shares daughters Joanie, eight, and Eliza, 14 with.

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