EastEnders fans will have to endure a hiatus from one of their beloved characters, as they take a long break from Albert Square. Iconic actress, Michelle Collins, who delighted fans with her comeback as Cindy Beale two years ago, made a dramatic exit earlier this year.
Now, sources confirm that she’ll be taking a short break. Switching gears to new opportunities, the 62 year old star is embarking on a thrilling journey in the dark comedy Motorhome Marilyn and will be taking a short break from the BBC drama to focus on her new gig. “She will be off screens for a few weeks but BBC bosses know it’s important to let their biggest stars do other projects so they remain on the show long-term,” an insider disclosed to The Sun.
Back in February, viewers were gripped as Cindy made a swift and tense departure from the Square, fleeing to her mate Gita’s place following a chilling assault on Christmas Day that left her “left for dead”.
After months of suspense, EastEnders revealed it was Kathy who had delivered the fateful blow to Cindy with a shovel. Recent episodes saw Peter and Lauren uncover the truth about Kathy’s ghastly deed.
Cindy reluctantly left Walford after being paid off, haunted by the fear that others would discover her part in the catastrophic events during the soap’s 40th anniversary special.
The grave accident at the Vic happened as Cindy pushed Ian into Reiss’s path, causing him to swerve and crash, leading to an explosion and tragically taking Martin Fowler’s life.
As she departed, Cindy confirmed she’d be back, as she declared to Junior, “Oh, no one’s getting away with anything, but I’m just happy to let them think that they have. For now.”
Michelle returned to EastEnders as Cindy in 2023, having originally joined in 1988. Her character was thought to be dead, but this year Cindy surfaced alive and well, undercover as Rose Knight, George Knight’s lost wife, with two daughters, Anna and Gina, in tow.
