EastEnders Michelle Ryan Confirms Complex Zoe Slater Return After Shooting

Michelle Ryan has returned to EastEnders after a 20-year break, reprising her role as Zoe Slater and describing the experience as somewhat surreal, likening it to being on The Truman Show due to the altered set. Zoe's storyline has included dramatic moments such as being accidentally shot, revealing she gave birth to twins in 2006, and a secret affair with Max Branning, which has deepened the plot complexity. Ryan has dismissed all fan theories regarding the paternity of Zoe’s twins, stating they are all incorrect, including popular guesses involving Anthony Trueman and the late Den Watts. The relationship between Zoe and her mother Kat Slater is depicted as complex and fraught but ultimately affectionate, with their recent reunion and Zoe's hospitalization intensifying their interactions. Flashbacks have revealed Max Branning's involvement in financially supporting Zoe to find her son put up for adoption, adding further layers to the family drama. Ryan hinted at more challenging developments to come for Zoe and Kat, emphasizing the emotional and difficult nature of their mother-daughter bond.