Sonia Fowler is expected to leave around the time of the soap's 40th anniversary in February.
Today, the BBC has confirmed that Natalie Cassidy will sadly be leaving EastEnders, and waving goodbye to Albert Square, more than three decades after her first appearance as Sonia Fowler.
Speaking about Natalie's departure, Chris 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."
Details on how Sonia will leave and when, is being kept under wraps, but it's expected to be around the show's 40th anniversary in February.
Sonia is currently involved in a major storyline in which she was freed from prison following her sister Bianca's "confession" to killing Reiss' wife, Debbie.
However, Sonia doesn't know that it's Reiss who is the guilty one and ever since Bianca found out, he's been keeping her sister locked up in his storage unit. But as Sonia's suspicions over Bianca's confession surface, could time be running out for Reiss? And will the climax of this storyline see us wave goodbye to a true EastEnders legend?
Speaking to The Sun last night, Natalie 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."
Adding "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."
EastEnders continues Mondays to Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One with first look episodes available from 6am on BBC iPlayer
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