Patsy Palmer has paid tribute to Natalie Cassidy ahead of her dramatic exit.
Natalie's departure coincides with the show's 40th anniversary week. While it's unconfirmed if Sonia will be killed off, speculation suggests a dramatic exit for the soap legend, who has been on the show for three decades. Natalie, who joined the soap at age 10, expressed both sadness and excitement about leaving to pursue new opportunities.
Known for her role as Bianca Jackson in EastEnders, Patsy has paid tribute to her friend as she spoke about their long friendship, recalling their early days together and mentioning Natalie's growth and achievements.
Sharing a throwback snap of them in wedding dresses, Patsy captioned the post: "Needed to pay my respect to this woman @natcass1 . I have known Natalie for too many years to add up. I started at The Anna Scher Theatre school when I was 9.
"Natalie is 10 years younger so she probably started around the same age some 10 years later. She was a old head in the cutest shoulders from day 1 and from that I day was her biggest protector.
Image:
Getty Images)Image:
Getty Images)“When we started @bbceastenders we started together. I would drive from Bethnal Green to Islington every morning to pick her up and bring her to work waved off by Eve her beautiful mumma . Windows down we would sing and laugh and learn lines on our wonderful journey together.”
Patsy added: "I have seen her grow into the most fantastic woman over the years and so so brilliantly funny and now shes making sure I am safe and comfy when I am here so far away from my family in LA.
“She often gives me a lift nowadays from work to stay with her making me dinner or to the hotel and I am truly grateful to call her my Sister on screen and off screen. Without Anna Schers we wouldn’t have done the jobs we have done because unfortunately its tough for girls like us to have made something of ourselves.
“I was determined to make Natalie know that she could do it and she has again and again! I’m proud of you and your work, your business ventures and your beautiful family. Here’s to all of you girls that think you won’t make it !! When we shot these scenes back in the early 90’s 22 million people tuned in to watch !! so keep dreaming . Don’t believe the lies we are here rooting for you. Go get em Nat I’ll be watching.”
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English (US) ·