Natalie Cassidy, who has played Sonia Fowler on EastEnders since 1993, is planning a drastic makeover after quitting the BBC soap later this year
Soap lovers are on the edge of their seats for Sonia Fowler’s exit from EastEnders, and Natalie Cassidy is ready to switch things up with a major makeover to celebrate her character’s departure.
The Islington native, 41, has become a household name as the much-adored nurse on the BBC One show since 1993, blazing through some memorable plots – from scandalous love twists to gritty legal drama – all while maintaining Sonia’s consistent look.
This has sparked Natalie Cassidy’s desire for a fresh start: “I’m really professional and good so I’ve always felt that Sonia should have the hair I have and no nails, so I’m going to get my nails done straight away,” reveals Natalie Cassidy.
She’s now eyeing a bold change from Sonia’s signature dark brown locks to something brighter. “I’ve always wanted red hair,” she shares, considering extensions and a brand-new style.
Despite consistently playing it safe with her appearance, even when taking on other roles, Natalie confesses, “I never changed it… But I want a drastic change.”
Drawing inspiration from Florence and the Machine’s iconic Florence Welch for her transformation, Natalie faces a bit of hesitation from her husband Marc Humphreys, who jests, “He thinks I won’t recognise myself,” but Natalie quips, “It’ll probably go back after two weeks and I’ll look like Natalie again.”
Natalie Cassidy, known for her role as Sonia Fowler on EastEnders, took a break from the soap last year to present Channel 4’s consumer affairs programme, What’s The Big Deal?
. She also recently surprised viewers by being revealed as Bush on The Masked Singer, despite her attempts to mislead fans by suggesting Australian comedian Morgana Robinson was behind the mask.
But Natalie isn’t saying goodbye to acting; she’s already secured her next gig in the upcoming second season of BBC3’s Boarders, where she’ll star alongside Alan Cumming.
Leaving EastEnders is bittersweet for Natalie, especially parting ways with her on-screen sister and off-screen pal, Patsy Palmer, who plays Bianca Jackson. After more than two decades of playing siblings, their bond extends beyond the screen.
“She’s playing my sister and she is like a sister to me,” Natalie shares warmly. “She’s amazing and the stuff she’s done as Bianca is incredible,” she praises.
Patsy recently reminisced about their long-standing friendship with a throwback post on Instagram, featuring Bianca’s iconic 1997 wedding to Ricky Butcher, and reflecting on their shared history at stage school. “I have known Natalie for too many years to add up,” Patsy reveals.
“She was an old head on the cutest shoulders,” she recalls fondly, adding, “I was her biggest protector from day one. When we started EastEnders, we started together.”
Back in the ’90s, Patsy would drive Natalie from Bethnal Green to the Elstree set, and since Patsy’s move to LA in 2014, Natalie has been returning the favour whenever Patsy is in town.
“She makes sure I am safe and comfy when I am here, so far away from my family,” Patsy opens up about the support she gets. “She often gives me a lift nowadays from work to stay with her. I am truly grateful to call her my sister on and off-screen.”