EastEnders airs Sonia Fowler's final scenes as Natalie Cassidy quits after 32 years

will air emotional exit scenes for Sonia Fowler this evening. Natalie Cassidy has quit her role on the soap, with bosses having previously

It was initially thought Sonia might depart Walford in the 40th anniversary scenes, which actually saw Martin Fowler die in heartbreaking scenes. She was a huge part of the anniversary episodes, though, when she gave birth in the crumbling Queen Vic during the huge week.

Tonight, Sonia's emotional exit scenes will air - amid twists and turns, Sonia's sister Bianca Jackson was worried about what he's hiding from her and at the end of last night's episode, it was clear he wasn't a nice man as he was seen roughing up and threatening a distressed Bianca – who shares the same mum but different dad with Sonia.

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Natalie has been open about her exit from the show. Speaking about it, she said: "I'm 42 this year, I just feel like it's time to be brave. You don't want to get to 70 and think, 'I never tried that'. I've loved this programme with all my heart. I started at ten, it's in my bones, it's in my heart. I'd been thinking about it for a little while. I had a wonderful chat with Chris back in the summer. It's just exciting.

"You can't hypothesise or worry about what's going to happen to your character. That is down to the boss and the storyliners as the fate of Sonia is in their hands. I've had to take a deep breath, and go, 'I've made my decision, I've just got to let it play out.'"

In a statement, Chris Clenshaw said: "Over the last 31 years in , 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 [minute] 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."

*The second part of this article contains spoilers from tonight's episode of EastEnders, which is available on iPlayer now.*

At the end of this evening's episode, Sonia decided she was going to leave and stay with her niece Whitney Dean rather than go with Terry. She thought it would be best to head away and then decide where she wants to settle - but insists it won't be in Walford.

As they gathered to say goodbye to Sonia, Bianca suggested they leave Walford in the boat, so they climbed in and they headed off with Bex and the baby for a break away from Walford - and Sonia's exit from the Square for now.

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