Michelle Ryan's character Zoe Slater is reportedly being killed off in EastEnders, just a year after her highly anticipated return to the soap. The BBC has confirmed Ryan's departure, with sources claiming the character will meet a tragic end.
Return to Walford cut short
The 42-year-old actress returned to the iconic show in June 2025, 20 years after her original exit, before joining full-time in August. However, according to The Sun, Ryan requested time off and subsequently quit, leading writers to decide on a fatal exit for Zoe.
A BBC spokesperson stated: '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.'
Disappointment behind the scenes
Ryan is believed to have filmed her final scenes in Walford last month, with her departure set to air over the coming months. A source described the return as 'somewhat flat and lacklustre,' adding: 'There’s been a backlash about her comeback, leaving some fans disappointed with her onscreen presence.'
Another insider noted: 'There has been some disappointment backstage that the return was shortlived as everyone loved the Zoe Slater’s historic moments.'
Zoe's iconic history
Zoe Slater first appeared in 2000 and became famous for one of soap's most memorable scenes: the revelation that Kat Moon, believed to be her sister, was actually her mother. When Zoe shouted, 'You can’t tell me what to do, you ain’t my mother,' Kat famously replied: 'Yes, I am!'
Ryan originally left the show in 2005 to pursue Hollywood roles, including the lead in the Bionic Woman remake. Her return storyline included a reunion with Kat, played by Jessie Wallace.
Metro has contacted the BBC for further comment.
