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EastEnders icon set to make huge ‘return to Albert Square’ 20 years after quitting the BBC soap

BBG News

Actress Michelle Ryan, known for her role on EastEnders, might reappear at Albert Square after a gap of twenty years since she left the BBC series.

From 2000 to 2005, the actress, who was then 41 years old, took on the character of Zoe Slater. Later, she chose to embark on a fresh start in Ibiza following a mistaken assumption that she had caused Den Watts’ death.

While Michelle was a part of EastEnders, she played a significant role in one of the show’s most notable storylines. It turned out that Kat Slater (played by Jessie Wallace) was not Zoe’s sister but her mother. This revelation led to intense scenes where Michelle exclaimed, “You’re not my mother!”, to which Kat responded firmly, “Yes, I am!

In my perspective, I’m thrilled to share the news that Michelle is rumored to reappear on the stage where she initially gained stardom. She seems to feel that the current moment presents the ‘ideal’ opportunity for her much-anticipated return.

According to a source, managers have consistently attempted to contact Michelle, but the circumstances haven’t align perfectly.

‘People are still talking about her character, so it’s a real coup to bring her back.’

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They noted that she believes this is the ideal time, as there was an enticing screenplay available.

TopMob have contacted EastEnders representatives who declined to comment. 

Following her departure from EastEnders, Michelle moved on to the United States, securing the main role in the series titled Bionic Woman.

After it was disclosed by TopMob in February, it’s been made clear that despite numerous invitations from superiors throughout the years, Michelle has consistently declined to rejoin EastEnders, opting out each time she was approached.

2001 saw a significant moment in the soap opera EastEnders when Kat Slater, known for her fondness of leopard print, shared a shocking truth with her character portrayed as her sister, Zoe. Namely, Kat confessed that she was actually Zoe’s biological mother, a fact that had been hidden due to Kat being sexually abused by her uncle.

One memorable and widely recognized moment from EastEnders’ four-decade journey continues to hold significance, often imitated by fans of soap operas everywhere.

As a devoted fan, I can’t forget the captivating plotline that propelled me, at 16, into stardom. In 2005, I bid farewell to Walford for the last time, marking five years since I joined EastEnders with the Slater family.

A source revealed to TopMob that the managers frequently contacted Michelle throughout the years, expressing their desire for her to rejoin them. For instance, as the soap neared its major 30th anniversary, they subtly inquired if she would be open to a return in preparation for the milestone event.

At the initial phases of their projects, Michelle declined, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among superiors.

It’s puzzling as to why she refuses to play the character again, considering how much fans continue to love her. It has been two decades since she departed from Albert Square, yet conversations about her character persist.

As the soap approached its 40th anniversary, several previous characters returned to the show, such as Grant Mitchell, Bianca Jackson, Chrissie Watts, David Wicks, Nigel Bates, Mickey Miller, and even Angie Watts. However, Zoe was noticeably absent.

Michelle confessed upon leaving her role that she found playing Zoe became monotonous towards the end, expressing this sentiment to the Bristol Evening Post: “Repeating the same actions every day can be incredibly tedious. I enjoy variety and moving onto new experiences.

Over the years, EastEnders served as a stepping stone for me. My ambition has always been to explore new opportunities. I’ve made some fantastic connections through that series, but unfortunately, those doors no longer remain open.

I’ve consistently chosen the path of taking risks, believing it’s a key factor for growth and advancement, as it involves venturing into new experiences.

I truly value my independence and enjoy switching jobs frequently. What matters most to me is working alongside individuals I admire and respect, regardless of the project’s scale or my role within it.

Twenty years since departing from the show, the renowned actor came close to shattering the American entertainment scene upon securing the starring position in the modern adaptation of the beloved 70’s TV series The Bionic Woman. Regrettably, despite its initial success, the program was ultimately terminated after only one season.

Ever since, I’ve been privileged to witness the British star shine in various indie productions. For instance, I’ve caught him in 4.3.2.1. and Cockneys vs Zombies.

She has also had guest roles in BBC shows Merlin, Doctor Who and Death In Paradise.

In her latest cinematic role, she played Lady Charlotte in Frankenstein: Legacy (2021). Furthermore, she is set to appear as Lisa Kendall in Finding My Voice, scheduled for release in 2025.

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2025-06-01 02:03

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