BBC’s “Eastenders” Michelle Collins & Adam Woodyatt Return

BBC’s “Eastenders” Michelle Collins & Adam Woodyatt Return

Last night, 25 years after her character died off-screen, soap legend Michelle Collins returned to EastEnders in the role of Cindy Beale, only to be revealed as Rose Knight, George Knight’s (Colin Salmon) long lost wife.

Cindy is still a legend in the soap opera world. Cindy, who is known for her devious and manipulative ways and who has been at the centre of some of EastEnders’ most memorable storylines, will return to the show on Thursday (June 22) alongside Ian Beale, played by EastEnders’ longest serving cast member and former husband, but how and why will not be revealed until the episode’s premiere.

The Cindy and Ian Saga

Cindy’s tumultuous relationship with Ian, which included numerous extramarital affairs and an attempted murder after a bitter custody battle, kept her in the spotlight during her previous appearances on the show between 1988 and 1998. In 1998, Cindy was last seen on screen, and at the time, it was implied that she had died in childbirth, leaving behind son Steven and daughters Lucy and Peter and Cindy.

In 2021, Ian left Walford after his ex-wife Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) and best friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) tried to poison him in retaliation for his role in Denny’s death. A surprising turn of events for viewers came when Ian unexpectedly attended Dot’s funeral, but new information reveals that his mysterious call was actually to Cindy.

Her explosive return, along with that of her ex-husband Ian, is sure to send shockwaves throughout the Square, not least for the Knights, who have no idea where “Rose” has been all these years.

Quotes from Michelle and Adam

Speaking on her return, Michelle Collins says: “For over 25 years I’ve constantly been asked ‘are you going back’ and now finally I can say I am! It’s an honour to be asked to reprise the role of Cindy Beale, a character that has really never left me, and just like the old days, where Cindy goes, drama usually follows”

Adam Woodyatt adds: “It’s weird saying Ian’s back as it never really felt like he was gone, Ian still existed just not in Walford. Now that he is back, he needs to avoid Sharon cooking carbonara and his mum getting him cufflinks for Christmas!”