Natalie Cassidy discusses the difficulties of transitioning away from her role as Sonia Fowler on EastEnders a year after leaving the show. In a conversation with Kate Thornton on the White Wine Question Time podcast, the actress reflected on her post-Albert Square life and shared insights on how she managed to avoid being solely defined by her iconic character.

Kate highlighted the rarity of actors successfully branching out from EastEnders after spending a significant amount of time in one role. She commended Natalie for not being confined to the character of Sonia and for achieving success beyond the soap opera’s realm.

Acknowledging the challenges of departing a long-standing soap opera role after over three decades, the 43-year-old expressed pride in maintaining her individual identity. Natalie emphasized her comfort in being herself, mentioning her deliberate choice to continue engaging in public appearances and interviews while portraying Sonia.

Contrary to some actors who use their roles as a shield, Natalie affirmed her preference for transparency and authenticity. She attributed her enduring connection to the character of Sonia to serendipitous timing and a genuine fondness for the role she stumbled into at a young age.

Despite her enduring success in the entertainment industry, Natalie admitted to feeling like an outsider at times due to the prevalence of egos. She emphasized the importance of talent, punctuality, and professionalism while also expressing a sense of detachment from the industry’s culture.

Having debuted as Sonia Fowler in 1993, Natalie Cassidy became a prominent figure on EastEnders, captivating audiences for more than three decades before bidding farewell in April 2025. Post-EastEnders, she has remained active with various projects, including hosting the podcast “Life with Nat” and participating in the BBC documentary series “Natalie Cassidy: Learning to Care,” showcasing her journey in becoming a carer.