EastEnders fans have 'worked out' Cindy Beale's revenge plan – as she made her soap return tonight.
In huge scenes, it was confirmed that Cindy Beale is actually alive and well, despite Ian being told that she died in childbirth whilst in prison. Fans were left reeling by the scenes, which saw Cindy – played by Michelle Collins – sat in France having a glass of wine and the real identity of none other than Rose Knight, the estranged wife of George Knight.
Some viewers are now convinced they know why Cindy is back – and what her plans are when she makes her return to Walford.
"We all knew it was Cindy Beale… but I can’t wait for the fireworks from Kathy, Sharon and what does this mean for Bobby? Will Cindy want revenge for Lucy? Is Lucy’s death the reason she abandoned her new family! #EastEnders," one viewer wrote.
A second added: "Wonder how'd she'd react to Bobby? Knowing he killed her Lucy...#EastEnders," whilst a third penned online: "So Bobby killed Lucy Cindy's daughter, does she know? #EastEnders."
"I wonder if cindy even knows about lucy’s death? surely this must call for a peter return too, especially with bobby getting back in contact with him #EastEnders," a fourth shared.
Cindy made her return in shock scenes this evening, when it was confirmed she is actually alive and well and living in France.
Speaking at a press event, Michelle – who played Cindy over 20 years ago and is reprising her role again – revealed: "Do you know what, I didn’t think they could ever do it. Life is about timing. If it had happened five years ago, I probably would’ve said no.
"Adam and I were both touring and he’d mentioned it to me. I said to my agent, 'Obviously it’s ridiculous, but let’s just go and meet Chris'. And we had this breakfast meeting and he got his laptop out and he reeled it off and we both went, 'Wow.'"
She added: "Oh my God. It was incredible. And I was just like, 'actually, maybe this could work'."
Executive producer Chris has revealed we will learn more about how her and Ian reconnected, and what this might mean for them going forward as they navigate their new life with one another – as the secrets are forced to the forefront.
"What will become much clearer is how they got back together, just over a year ago, and how she really relied on Ian," he said of what's to come for the iconic pair, "At the end of the day, he’s hopelessly in love, isn’t he?
"Yes, she tried to kill him but he’s had six marriages and I think love is blind when it comes to Ian."
Michelle is hopeful people will love Ian and Cindy’s return.
"I don’t think EastEnders is the same without Ian. And I think Cindy’s a much-loved character. Whether you like her or not, she had a huge impact on people. So I hope people will be excited on her return," she said.
