Inside EastEnders' Natalie Cassidy's life with co-star husband and why she quit role

ok.co.uk:

Natalie Cassidy, the beloved EastEnders star, is set to depart from Walford, as she leaves the BBC One soap behind.The 41 year old actress, who has brought Sonia Fowler to life since the Jackson family arrived on Albert Square in 1993, is seeking new adventures after an impressive run.

Cassidy confirmed her exit, stating: "After another 11 solid years back on the square, I have decided it's time to move on to pastures new." She hasn't lost any love for the show that launched her career, confessing: "EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career and I will continue to love the show." On her podcast, Life with Nat, which she co-hosts with partner Marc Humphreys, Natalie opened up about leaving: "It's nice to be able to say that I'm leaving, and I just think it's really nice for people to know that I am going. (It will) be interesting to see what other work offers come in - none at all probably!" Earlier, she had mentioned that announcing her departure felt "a weight lifted off my shoulders".

But it's not over yet; Sonia remains embroiled in a gripping murder scandal involving her on-screen partner Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman).

Besides EastEnders, Natalie has been a familiar face on shows like The Catherine Tate Show and Psychoville, and more recently shone in the BBC drama Boarders, reports Plymouth Live.