20 years after her exit from Albert Square, Michelle has now made a shock return as Zoe Slater , with the actress hinting her character is 'a mess' as she reunites with her estranged mother Kat.
The actress, best known for her iconic 'You ain't my muvva!' moment, made her first appearance in Monday's episode, after her return was kept under wraps.
MailOnline can reveal that, despite multiple attempts from bosses to bring her back to Eastenders over the years, Michelle Ryan, 40, has refused - turning them down every time they've asked.