Michelle Collins, best known for her iconic role as Cindy Beale in EastEnders, has admitted she never imagined she would be part of the soap’s 40th anniversary specials, especially after a 25-year gap in her appearances.
Michelle Collins on Cindy Beale’s Unexpected Comeback
Collins originally played Cindy Beale from 1988 to 1998, before the character was killed off-screen while giving birth in prison. However, in a dramatic twist, Cindy made an explosive return in 2023, revealing she had been alive all along.
Speaking to Radio Times, Collins expressed her gratitude and surprise at returning for the milestone:
“Cindy was originally only meant to be in the show for 11 episodes. And then she died, off-screen, in 1998 – so no, I never imagined being here for the 40th. I’m so grateful I am, though.”
She also revealed that despite initially considering other career paths, she remained in EastEnders because of her love for playing Cindy and the exciting work environment.
How Michelle Collins Feels About Her Second Stint in EastEnders
Reflecting on her then and now experiences, Collins shared how she has changed over the years:
**”I loved it for the first few years. When I came back in the ’90s, I was in my early 30s and very ambitious, I never saw myself there for the future.
“Now I’m back again, I’m happier to stay. I think I’m more comfortable in my own skin, more content, and I’m not running away all the time.”**
However, she noted that Cindy Beale remains just as restless and ambitious as ever, saying:
“Cindy hasn’t changed: she’s still discontented and never happy with what she’s got.”
Cindy’s Attack and the 40th Anniversary Mystery
Collins’ character was attacked on Christmas Day in 2024, with the perpetrator’s identity set to be revealed during the anniversary week celebrations.
EastEnders’ 40th anniversary specials will feature:
- A special hour-long episode on Wednesday, February 19
- A full live episode on Thursday, February 20
- Anniversary week episodes airing at 7:30 p.m. on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Monday, February 17
Celebrating Strong Female Characters in Soaps
Collins also spoke about the importance of strong female roles in television, particularly in soaps:
“TV isn’t great for women of a certain age, but soaps are. What EastEnders and characters like Cindy show is that we have got voices, we have got stories – and they should be heard.”
Fans eagerly await the high-stakes anniversary week, with plenty of drama, live performances, and major twists promised.
This is a developing story, and further updates will follow as the EastEnders 40th anniversary celebrations unfold.
