EASTENDERS legend Michelle Ryan is set to return as Zoe Slater 20 years after she left Albert Square.
The shock return will see the actress, 41, back in Walford this year — delighting fans who had hoped to see her in the soap’s 40th anniversary special in February.
A source said: “Bosses have repeatedly reached out to Michelle over the years, but the timing has never been quite right.
“People are still talking about her character, so it’s a real coup to bring her back.
“She feels like now is the perfect moment — and there was an exciting script on the table.”
Michelle starred on the soap from 2000 to 2005, before moving to Hollywood after landing the lead role in a series called Bionic Woman.
The Slater sisters took Albert Square by storm when they arrived.
Young Zoe fell out with protective Kat, played by Jessie Wallace, storming off with the words: “You can’t tell me what to do.
“You ain’t my mother.”
Kat famously screamed back: “Yes I am!”
It became one of the most quoted lines in soap history.
The plot twist revealed Zoe — who was brought up believing Kat was her sister — found out she was actually her mum.
Discussing her decision to leave at the time, Michelle said: “I’ve always taken chances. I think that’s how you progress.”
Since then Michelle has appeared in several films, including 4.3.2.1. and Cockneys vs Zombies.
She has also had guest roles in BBC shows Doctor Who and Merlin.
