EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy has opened up about a painful chapter from her past, revealing that pop star Paloma Faith used to bully her during their school days.
Speaking on her podcast Life With Nat, the actress, 42, recalled attending Islington Green School in London, where Paloma, now 43, was one year above her. “Paloma Faith, she bullied me at school,” Natalie said bluntly. “We’ve spoken about it and she has said sorry about that. Gutted.”
Both stars grew up in North London, with Natalie born in Islington and Paloma raised in Hackney. Despite sharing similar beginnings, their memories of school life couldn’t be more different. While Natalie remembers a rough time, Paloma once described her experience there as “amazing”, praising the school’s creative environment and dedicated teachers.
Though Paloma’s team has yet to respond to Natalie’s comments, it seems the two have since made peace. Natalie didn’t dwell on the past but acknowledged the moment with honesty and closure.
Meanwhile, Natalie’s future is brighter than ever. After decades on EastEnders as Sonia Fowler, the actress recently announced her exit from the soap as part of its 40th anniversary. Industry insiders now believe she’s poised to make millions, with endorsements, documentary deals, and possibly even a stint on I’m A Celebrity on the horizon.
Brand expert Nick Ede even called her the “next Stacey Solomon”, predicting her approachable image and long-standing popularity could translate into huge success beyond Albert Square.
For Natalie, leaving EastEnders wasn’t easy—but at 42, she says she’s finally ready to be brave. “You don’t want to get to 70 and think, ‘I never tried that,’” she said.
