Michelle Collins Returns to EastEnders: Reuniting with Former Co-Stars for an Explosive Comeback

Soap Legend Michelle Collins Returns to EastEnders as Cindy Beale

Published: 8:05 pm, 21 June 2023

Tonight, soap legend Michelle Collins made her comeback to EastEnders, reprising her role as the iconic Cindy Beale. After 25 years, Collins returns to the show, revealing that her character, Cindy, is actually Rose Knight, the long lost wife of George Knight (played by Colin Salmon).

Cindy Beale is known as one of the most memorable and iconic characters in soap history, famous for her scheming and manipulative behavior. She will be returning alongside Adam Woodyatt, who plays Ian Beale, EastEnders‘ longest-standing cast member and Cindy’s former husband. The circumstances surrounding their return and the shocking revelation of Cindy’s identity will be revealed in tomorrow night’s episode.

The Scandalous Past of Cindy Beale

During Cindy’s previous stints on the show from 1988 to 1998, she was always at the center of scandal. Her tumultuous relationship with Ian Beale involved numerous affairs, resulting in a bitter custody battle and even an attempted murder. Cindy’s character was last seen on-screen in 1998, where viewers were led to believe she had died off-screen while giving birth to her namesake daughter.

Ian Beale left Walford in 2021 after a tumultuous period involving his ex-best friend, Sharon Watts, and her attempt to poison him alongside Phil Mitchell. However, viewers were surprised when Ian secretly turned up at Dot’s funeral. It was later revealed that he made a mysterious call, which now transpires to have been to Cindy.

Explosive Return to the Square

While the circumstances surrounding Cindy’s “death,” reappearance, and reunion with Ian are still unknown, their return is expected to send shockwaves throughout the Square. The Knights, who have no knowledge of Rose’s true identity, will undoubtedly be affected the most by this revelation.

Speaking on her return, Michelle Collins expressed her excitement, stating: “For over 25 years, I’ve constantly been asked if I’m going back to EastEnders, and now I can finally say I am! It’s an honor to reprise the role of Cindy Beale, a character that has never really left me. Just like the old days, where Cindy goes, drama usually follows.”

Adam Woodyatt also shared his thoughts on Ian’s return, jokingly saying: “It’s weird saying Ian’s back because it never really felt like he was gone. Now that he’s back, he just needs to avoid Sharon cooking carbonara and his mom getting him cufflinks for Christmas!”

Chris Clenshaw, the executive producer, expressed his excitement about welcoming back two EastEnders icons. He said, “To welcome Michelle Collins back to Walford to reprise her role as the legendary Cindy Beale after twenty-five years is somewhat surreal. Cindy’s been sorely missed from our screens, and we’re delighted that she’ll be returning to Walford alongside Ian, permanently later this year.”

Unraveling the Secrets

Now that Cindy’s true identity as Rose Knight has been revealed, viewers can expect to learn about the circumstances surrounding her return. The million-dollar question remains: how is Cindy alive when she was declared dead in 1998? The answers to these lingering questions will be unveiled this summer, promising an explosive comeback for Ian and Cindy.

The highly-anticipated return of Michelle Collins as Cindy Beale (or rather, Rose Knight) is sure to captivate viewers and reignite the drama that EastEnders is known for. Fans can expect twists, turns, and shocking revelations as the Square prepares for the reunion of these iconic characters.

Despite the unanswered questions and the mysteries that surround Cindy Beale’s return, one thing is for certain – her long-awaited comeback to EastEnders is a momentous occasion that will undoubtedly make soap history once again.