EastEnders Zoe Slater axed and killed off from BBC soap

Ryan returned to Albert Square last year after her character, Zoe Slater, had a 20-year absence.

The star originally appeared on EastEnders from 2000 to 2005; Zoe’s return saw the character reconnect with her estranged mother, Kat Moon, played by Jessie Wallace.

But now Zoe is set to leave the BBC soap for good, with reports that scriptwriters have chosen to kill off the character.

EastEnders legend Zoe Slater axed and killed off

Zoe’s exit reportedly has already been filmed, with EastEnders viewers able to watch the scenes later this year.

Discussing the characters depature, a source told The Sun, “Michelle’s long-awaited return has been somewhat flat and lacklustre.

“There’s been a backlash about her comeback, leaving some fans disappointed with her on-screen presence.

“There has been some disappointment backstage that the return was short-lived, as everyone loved Zoe Slater’s historic moments.”

Actress Ryan has been featured in some of EastEnders’ most iconic scenes, including the plot twist that revealed her ‘sister’ Kat was actually her birth mother.

“Mr Beale, I have some news.” #EastEnders, tomorrow at 7:30pm on @BBCOne and on @BBCiPlayer. pic.twitter.com/AXOgA8W58L

— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) July 12, 2026

When the pair began to argue, Zoe shouted, “You can’t tell me what to do, you ain’t my mother”, as Kat replied, “Yes, I am!”

Ryan first made her return to EastEnders last June for a brief storyline, before fully returning a few months later in September.

Discussing the reports, an EastEnders spokesperson said, “We can confirm Zoe Slater will be departing EastEnders later this year. We wish Michelle Ryan all the best for the future.

“However, we never comment on future storylines as we don’t want to spoil it for the viewers.”

What is your favourite EastEnders scene with Zoe Slater? Let us know in the comments.