Michelle Ryan has been spotted back on the EastEnders set just weeks after her character, Zoe Slater, made a surprise return to the soap. Viewers were shocked when Zoe returned after 20 years. She left again after a close run-in with her mother, Kat.
During her brief stint, Zoe was seen in Stacey Slater’s flat as Alfie Moon came to help. Zoe then fled to Barcelona after revealing a secret she believed everyone would “hate her” for. Alfie is currently in Barcelona trying to bring Zoe back.
It is known that Zoe will be returning to the Square later this year. Recent pictures show Michelle filming on set with Sonny Kendall, who plays Kat Slater’s son, Tommy Moon. Zoe has never met her half-brother Tommy, but from the pictures, it looks like their first meeting could be happening soon.
Zoe also has half-brothers Bert and Ernie, who she’s yet to meet. Fans can expect drama when Zoe eventually reunites with her mum, Kat.
Michelle Ryan back on set
The pair had a turbulent relationship, which included revelations about Kat’s past and the truth about Zoe’s parentage. Despite a reconciliation, their relationship became fractured again, and they now remain estranged. Alfie hopes to bring the two back together by bringing Zoe back from Barcelona, although dramatic scenes could unfold if his plan backfires.
Keeping Zoe’s return a secret from his wife, Alfie told Kat he was off to help his brother, Spencer. Kat is already becoming suspicious, as she mentioned she hadn’t spoken to Alfie since he left, and Spencer had been acting oddly when she called. Prior to Alfie leaving, Kat told him that their relationship would be over for good if she found out he was lying about his whereabouts.
Zoe’s return marked the first episode for new Executive Producer Ben Wadey. Speaking on Michelle Ryan’s return to the soap, Wadey said, “Before I even stepped into the role, Zoe Slater was on my wish-list of returnees. Although we haven’t seen her on screen for twenty years, her character has transcended time due to her popular storylines.
I was absolutely delighted when Michelle agreed to return, and I’m thrilled to welcome her back to Walford. Whilst I can’t say too much at this stage, Zoe’s return is just one of the many exciting storylines we have planned.”
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30 pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
