EastEnders Michelle Ryan Quits Days After Zoe Slater Return

EastEnders fans have been stunned by the sudden exit of Zoe Slater, played by Michelle Ryan, shortly after her much-anticipated return to the soap. Zoe's comeback was marked by revelations of her struggling with dire circumstances and evading her mother Kat, culminating in her decision not to settle back in Walford and her mysterious disappearance. The return, which happened 20 years after her original exit, sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some viewers expressing disappointment and others excited about the nostalgic reunion. Michelle Ryan’s reprisal of Zoe was kept secret by the show's producers, adding to the shock and speculation among fans. Meanwhile, another character, Lexi Pearce, has been noticeably absent from the show for months, causing fans to speculate whether the young actress has quit or might be recast. Despite some criticism, the return of Zoe Slater marks a significant moment under the new Executive Producer Ben Wadey, who expressed enthusiasm for bringing back legacy characters.