EastEnders fans believe they have worked out what Zoe Slater is hiding ahead of her full-time return to Walford. Michelle Ryan reprised her role as Zoe after 20 years a few months ago, and during her brief stint, she hinted at a dark secret she claims no one can ever find out.
Speculation has been rife, with some fans initially thinking Zoe could be the mystery mother of troubled teen Joel Marshall. However, recent spoilers appear to have ruled out that twist, leaving viewers to focus on other theories.
A key theory is that Zoe was the one who scammed Jean Slater. This idea gained traction after Zoe was seen stealing her cousin Stacey Slater's credit card a few months back. One fan posted on social media: 'The more I think about it the more I think Zoe’s secret is that it was her that scammed Jean.' Another echoed: 'That she ripped of Jean.'
Other suggestions include Zoe abandoning her child or a connection to Max Branning's return. One viewer speculated: 'Zoe marrying Max?' Another added: 'Might be something Max related then, sadly. Joel would have been an interesting angle.'
Some fans remain convinced that a 'red herring' is at play and that Zoe will still be revealed as Joel's mother. One commented: 'She could’ve gone by a different name. But I bloody hope she isn’t his mother.' Another said: 'Maybe Cleo is a fake name?'
