After more than three decades of drama, heartbreak, iconic trumpet solos, and unforgettable family squabbles, EastEnders waved goodbye to one of its most enduring and beloved characters — Sonia Fowler, played by Natalie Cassidy. The episode, aired on April 17, marked the end of an era as Sonia set sail (literally) out of Walford with her half-sister Bianca Jackson, portrayed once again by the fiery Patsy Palmer.

But behind the joyful onscreen farewell lay a note of disappointment — not from Sonia herself, but from the actress who’s lived and breathed the character since 1993. Natalie Cassidy, now 41, revealed during an appearance on the Off The Telly podcast that a key moment she had been especially proud of — a quiet, emotional scene between Sonia and the iconic Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) — had apparently been cut from the final edit.

Cassidy admitted that while watching the episode with her family while on a holiday in Cornwall, she was caught off-guard by the missing scene. “I felt quite emotional,” she confessed. “But, do you know what? Maybe I’ve missed it because I wasn’t watching it properly, but I feel like they cut out the scene which was my favourite.”

The moment in question was a heartfelt exchange on the Square between Sonia and Phil — a pairing that, although unusual in the grand narrative of the soap, symbolised the kind of quiet, grounded interaction that Cassidy felt encapsulated her character’s legacy. “It was just me and Phil having a moment,” she said. “I didn’t see it. I’d be really cross [if it’s gone] because it was a really nice scene.”

Despite the omission, Sonia’s exit itself was far from dull or cliché. Instead of the usual black cab farewell or tragic twist, the episode took a lighter, celebratory tone. Sonia, trumpet in hand, climbed aboard a speedboat with Bianca, waving a fond and somewhat quirky goodbye to Walford. It was a scene that brought smiles and tears — what Cassidy described as “happy tears.”

“I’ve had loads of DMs and messages and stuff just saying how people have shed a tear, but a happy tear,” she said. “It was nice and joyful… it was just fun.”

This bittersweet exit marks the second major departure for Cassidy from the soap, having initially left in 2007, only to return briefly in 2010–2011, and then again in a full-time capacity in 2014. Her portrayal of Sonia has seen her character tackle everything from teen motherhood and healthcare storylines to family breakdowns and complex relationships, carving out a place in British pop culture as a staple of EastEnders’ emotional core.

Cassidy first announced her decision to leave earlier in January, describing herself as “extremely sad” but also “very excited” to step into new creative territory. “After another 11 solid years back on the square, I have decided it’s time to move on to pastures new,” she explained in a statement. “EastEnders is in my bones so I will never forget where I started my career, and I will continue to love the show.”

Outside the Square, Natalie has already dived headfirst into new ventures. She recently hosted her very first show on Virgin Radio over Easter, sharing her excitement and nerves in equal measure. Speaking again on the Off The Telly podcast, she reflected on the experience: “It was really good. It was nerve-racking, but again, it’s just another thing to tick off the list. A little bucket list of firsts.”

Cassidy has also announced a book in the works and is fronting a consumer-focused television programme, further showcasing her determination to expand her career and not be defined by a single role — even one as iconic as Sonia Fowler.

Her heartfelt gratitude extended to the EastEnders team, particularly executive producer Chris Clenshaw, for including her in the show’s milestone 40th anniversary celebrations. “It’s an honour,” she said. “See you, Sonia — going, but never forgotten.”

While fans have poured out tributes and fond memories of Sonia’s presence in Albert Square, the BBC has remained tight-lipped about the missing Phil scene, which has only heightened the intrigue. Was it a simple editing decision, a runtime constraint, or something more deliberate? Either way, the omission didn’t go unnoticed — especially not by the star who lived that moment.

Still, the warmth of Cassidy’s send-off was undeniable. Sonia’s unique goodbye — trumpet blazing, laughter echoing, with the sun setting over Walford’s waters — felt like the perfect quirky curtain call for a character who’s never shied away from being her authentic self, whether she was dealing with heartbreak, playing peacemaker, or just giving someone a piece of her mind.

Sonia’s journey may be over (for now), but Natalie Cassidy’s next chapter is only just beginning. And while fans might never get to see that missing moment with Phil, what remains is a rich legacy — one crafted with love, resilience, and a whole lot of brass.