EASTENDERS icon Natalie Cassidy has landed a role that will see her away from Albert Square.
The actress, who first starred in BBC soap from 1993, has joined the second series of BBC drama Boarders, alongside Traitors US presenter Alan Cumming.
The series focuses on five talented black inner-city teens who gain scholarships to the prestigious St. Gilbert’s boarding school.
The second series, which will air later this year, sees Traitors star Alan as Alan, a man with high standards of the students at St. Gilbert’s whilst Alan is Sharon Hail, a teacher at a rival school.
Whilst Natalie hasn’t spoken out about her role in Boarders, Alan told Deadline: “I’ve always said that letting people know you are a fan of theirs is a good idea.
“And, so it was with Boarders. I mentioned this to the producers — who also happen to produce The Traitors — and very soon after, I found myself on the set having such a fun time.”
Last year Natalie hinted at Sonia exiting the BBC soap after her on-screen character was charged with murdering Debbie (Jenny Meier).
In August BBC viewers watched as she was arrested in the Queen Vic for the murder, whilst pleading her innocence.
Last month, it was reported Natalie would leave the BBC soap for a short spell to film a new project for Channel 4.
She is fronting a four-part series titled What’s The Big Deal?, focusing on current trending consumer products.
A source said of her hiatus: “Natalie will be taking a short break, just like many of her co-stars do when they have another project
“Bosses always try to let stars spread their wings and if they can make it work with the often punish-ing soap schedule, then they’ll do it.
“Natalie’s really excited to tackle the project for Channel 4. This is another string to her bow.”