Michelle Ryan is to leave EastEnders a year after making her return as Zoe Slater.
The Eastenders star returned to her role for the first time in 20 years just last summer.
A spokesperson for Eastenders told RTE: "We can confirm Zoe Slater will be departing EastEnders later this year. We wish Michelle Ryan all the best for the future."
A source revealed to the Press Association that Ryan's exit marks the end of a storyline that has "been in the works for some time."
"With such an iconic character, Zoe’s exit is never going to be without drama, but bosses are keeping tight-lipped about how she leaves the Square, but as always with the Slaters, it’s not going to be quiet," the source continued.
According to the Irish Sun, shortly after Ryan returned to the Soap in 2025 she asked for time off. She reportedly quit the Soap and scriptwriters have made her decision permanent by killing off her character.
The Irish Sun also confirmed that her final scenes were filmed last month and viewers will see her departure play out over the coming months.
Further details of her departure are yet to be revealed.
