The BBC has confirmed that Michelle Ryan is leaving EastEnders just a year after her much-publicised return as Zoe Slater, with reports that her character will be killed off in a shocking twist. The 42-year-old actress, who originally played Zoe from 2000 to 2005, returned to the soap last June after a 20-year absence and became a full-time cast member in August. However, her comeback has been short-lived, and Zoe is set to meet a tragic end, making her exit permanent.
Return and Backlash
Michelle Ryan's return was highly anticipated, especially as it included an onscreen reunion with Zoe's estranged mother, Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace. However, according to The Sun, the actress reportedly requested time off before deciding to quit, leading writers to pen a fatal exit for her character. A source told the publication that her return had been 'somewhat flat and lacklustre', with a backlash from fans disappointed by her onscreen presence. 'There has been some disappointment backstage that the return was shortlived as everyone loved Zoe Slater's historic moments,' the insider added.
Official Confirmation
A BBC spokesperson confirmed the departure on Saturday night, stating: 'We can confirm Zoe Slater will be departing EastEnders later this year. We wish Michelle Ryan all the best for the future. However, we never comment on future storylines as we don't want to spoil it for the viewers.' Michelle is believed to have filmed her final scenes in Walford last month, with her exit storyline set to unfold over the coming months.
Iconic Moments
Zoe Slater was at the centre of one of EastEnders' most memorable scenes, when the shocking revelation that Kat was her biological mother was exposed. In a heated argument, Zoe shouted, 'You can't tell me what to do, you ain't my mother,' to which Kat famously replied, 'Yes, I am!' The moment remains one of the soap's most iconic twists. Michelle Ryan originally left the show in 2005 to pursue a Hollywood career, landing the lead role in the Bionic Woman remake.
Metro has contacted the BBC for further comment. If you have a soap or TV story, video or pictures, get in touch by emailing soaps@metro.co.uk.
