Zoe Slater could have a secret son on EastEnders – as fans speculate about her returning storyline. At the end of last night’s episode, we learned that Zoe was back – temporarily and then permanently in the coming months.
Fans are convinced Zoe could be linked to someone else in the Square, as they work out her connection to a new character. Michelle recently broke her silence on returning to the soap and why she decided to go back after two decades.
“It all happened at the right time. I’d already been thinking about a return because I’d met up with Kacey Ainsworth (Little Mo) and Kim Medcalf (Sam Mitchell) and we were reminiscing our fond memories of the show, and I’d also joined social media and saw that there was still a lot of love for the character,” she said.

Kat and Zoe Slater(Image: BBC)
“It just so happened that at the same time, EastEnders had announced a new Exec who was keen to explore the potential of a return as he was such a massive fan of Zoe and the Slaters, so both of our worlds aligned at the right time, and I’m so excited to be back. When Ben pitched me the storylines, and when I read the scripts, I knew it was the right decision.”
New Executive Producer Ben Wadey said of the exciting news: “Before I even stepped into the role, Zoe Slater was on my wish-list of returnees as although we haven’t seen her on screen for twenty years, her character has transcended time due to her popular storylines. I was absolutely delighted when Michelle agreed to return, and I’m thrilled to welcome her back to Walford.

Fans are convinced Joel is linked to Zoe(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes)
“Whilst I can’t say too much at this stage, Zoe’s return is just one of the many exciting storylines we have planned.”
Now fans are convinced she could somehow be connected to Joel – who recently arrived alongside Vicki Fowler.
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One fan wrote: “When I first heard the theory of Zoe being Joel’s mum I thought it was ridiculous. But now I’m thinking it could be correct. It would be a great twist. And she’s not back to see Kat but her son Joel..”
Another suggested: “After tonight’s episode, she’s 100% Joel’s mum. Utterly ridiculous storyline, especially after they did the exact same thing with George, Gina and Anna moving to the same place Cindy lived at.”