EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy, best known for her long-running role as Sonia Fowler, has candidly discussed her struggles with co-ordination and balance,
revealing that she has often wondered if she has dyspraxia.
The actress recently spoke about how these issues have impacted her daily life, from navigating stairs to missing out on activities many take for granted.
Natalie Cassidy’s Balance Struggles
Cassidy, who has been a staple on EastEnders for decades, opened up about her difficulties with physical coordination,
explaining that she has never been able to ride a bike, roller skate, or ice skate. While she hasn’t received an official diagnosis,
she suspects that her symptoms align with dyspraxia, a condition that affects movement and coordination.
Speaking to The Mirror, she reflected on how these challenges have shaped her experiences. “I have no balance. I cannot ride a bike or roller skate or ice skate. In 2025, I think you’d call me dyspraxic. I think if I went and sorted it all out, I’ve got a bit of dyspraxia,” she revealed.
Cassidy also described how something as simple as walking down stairs can be daunting due to her poor balance. “If I go down the stairs, I have to prise myself at the top before I go. It’s a balance issue. I am a wobbler,” she admitted.
What is Dyspraxia?
Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a neurological condition that affects movement and coordination. According to the NHS, individuals with dyspraxia may struggle with balance, fine motor skills, and spatial awareness. The condition can impact everyday tasks such as writing, typing, and even grasping small objects.
Dyspraxia doesn’t only affect physical coordination—it can also influence social interactions and the ability to learn new skills. While many people are diagnosed in childhood, some, like Cassidy, only begin to recognize the symptoms later in life.
A Busy Time for the EastEnders Star
Cassidy’s revelation comes amid a dramatic period in EastEnders, where her character, Sonia Fowler, played a major role in the soap’s recent explosive storyline. Sonia was heavily featured in the EastEnders live episode, which saw her give birth in the aftermath of the shocking Queen Vic explosion.
Throughout the episode, Sonia found herself trapped in the wreckage alongside Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) and Bianca Jackson (Patsy Palmer). As she went into labour, her partner Reiss Colwell (Jonny Freeman) attempted to get close to her, but Bianca warned him to keep his distance.
The dramatic birth was a highlight of the 40th-anniversary celebrations for EastEnders, and fans were given the unique opportunity to vote on the baby’s name. Ultimately, Sonia revealed that she had named her daughter Julia.
Looking Ahead
While Cassidy continues to shine in her role on EastEnders, her openness about her balance struggles and potential dyspraxia diagnosis has resonated with many. By speaking out, she is helping to raise awareness about a condition that often goes undiagnosed, particularly in adults.
Her honesty about the challenges she faces in everyday life serves as a reminder that neurological conditions like dyspraxia can affect people in various ways. Whether or not she decides to seek a formal diagnosis, Cassidy’s story sheds light on the importance of understanding and accommodating different physical and neurological challenges.
As her EastEnders journey continues, fans will no doubt be watching closely to see what’s next for Sonia—and for Cassidy herself.
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