After two decades away from Albert Square, Zoe Slater has made a dramatic return to the BBC soap opera EastEnders, sparking excitement and speculation among fans and marking a fresh chapter under new leadership.
On Monday evening, June 16, 2025, viewers witnessed Zoe's first appearance in 20 years, a moment long teased through cryptic online videos featuring clicking heels and posters bearing her name. This return coincided with Ben Wadey's debut episode as the show's Executive Producer, signaling a new era for the beloved series. To prevent spoilers, the episode was simulcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, a departure from the usual early morning episode releases.
The episode opened with Stacey Slater, played by Lacey Turner, trying to rouse a woman asleep on a couch in an unfamiliar flat. The woman, later revealed to be Zoe, appeared disheveled, with an empty vodka bottle on the floor, suggesting she had been struggling. Stacey's frustration was palpable as she repeatedly attempted to contact Alfie Moon, portrayed by Shane Richie, for assistance. When Alfie finally arrived, Stacey warned him that the woman looked "a lot different" from how they remembered.
Meanwhile, a troubling subplot unfolded involving Joel Marshall, a character introduced earlier in 2025 alongside his father Ross and Ross's partner Vicki Fowler. Joel confided in Tommy Moon about his disdain for women, stemming from his mother abandoning him during his childhood. Joel's behavior escalated dangerously; he secretly filmed an intimate moment with schoolgirl Avani without her consent and encouraged Tommy to watch explicit adult content on Alfie's laptop. The tension peaked when Joel assaulted a young woman on the London Underground, leading to his apprehension by station staff and leaving Alfie shocked.
Fans quickly connected the dots, speculating that Zoe Slater is Joel's biological mother. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), viewers shared their theories and reactions with hashtags like #EastEnders. One fan wrote, "SO it looks like Joel's Mum might be Zoe," while another expressed apprehension, "Oh god I’m actually scared Zoe is going to end up being Joel’s mum." The show's writers have yet to confirm this, but the hints are clear.
Michelle Ryan, the actress behind Zoe, spoke candidly about her return after a 20-year hiatus. Describing the experience as "coming home," Ryan revealed that reconnecting with former co-stars Kacey Ainsworth and Kim Medcalf, combined with the arrival of Executive Producer Ben Wadey—who is a huge fan of Zoe and the Slater family—sparked her interest. "It all happened at the right time," Ryan shared. "After doing my first few scenes, it was like I'd never been away."
Ryan also teased that Zoe is a "mess" this time around, a far cry from the young woman who left Walford two decades ago. "She's been really struggling on her own," she said. "She has her defenses up, but this week you will see that she needs help – whether she is willing to accept it is another story." This new portrayal adds depth to Zoe's character, highlighting vulnerability beneath her tough exterior.
Zoe's original exit storyline was memorable; after being cleared of the murder of Dirty Den Watts—a crime she was framed for by Chrissie Watts—she left for Ibiza. Since then, the character has been mentioned sporadically, including a failed attempt by Lilly Slater to meet her in London years ago. Her return now not only reconnects her with the Square but also intertwines her fate with a new generation of characters.
The episode also featured poignant moments involving other characters. Tommy Moon faced reprimand from Kat Moon for feigning illness to spend time with Joel, reinforcing family dynamics. The intensity of Joel's actions on the Underground and the consequences he faces set a dark tone, contrasting with the nostalgic welcome for Zoe.
Fans were quick to express their enthusiasm online. Comments flooded X, with one user exclaiming, "OMG IT IS ZOE!!! What a brilliant start to the Wadey era!" Another wrote, "THIS WAS WORTH THE WAIT AR ZOE IS BAAAAACK." Such responses underscore the character's lasting impact and the audience's eagerness for fresh storylines.
Ben Wadey's leadership marks a pivotal moment for EastEnders. His first episode followed Chris Clenshaw's final broadcast, which featured Kat and Alfie Moon marrying for the third time. Wadey's approach, including the decision to simulcast episodes, aims to enhance viewer experience and maintain the show's legacy while introducing bold new narratives.
As EastEnders continues to air Monday through Thursday on BBC One and streams early on BBC iPlayer, viewers can anticipate more twists involving Zoe and the complex web of relationships in Walford. The return of a beloved character like Zoe Slater not only honors the show's rich history but also promises to captivate audiences with fresh drama and emotional depth.
