AN EASTENDERS legend is leaving Albert Square following their character’s role in a huge storyline.
Fans were stunned when Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) made a shock return two years ago – despite being believed to have “died” in 1998.
Now Michelle, 62, is preparing to make her Edinburgh Fringe Festival debut in dark comedy Motorhome Marilyn.
The show, by Ben Weatherill, will play at Doonstairs, Gilded Balloon Patter House, from 30 July to 25 August (with the exception of August 13).
EastEnders fans need not worry though, as Michelle will be back on-screen as Cindy in the near future.
A source revealed to The Sun: “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.
“Bosses will have big plans for Cindy when she does return to Albert Square.”
Discussing her upcoming role, Michelle said: “I am thrilled to be making my Edinburgh Fringe Festival debut with Motorhome Marilyn, a wonderful new play which is dark, funny and so close to my heart.
“When I encountered the show’s real-life namesake out in LA, I couldn’t have imagined that journey would lead me to this point.
“However, thanks to Ben’s, and my late friend Stuart’s, wonderful writing, I can’t wait to share this story with Edinburgh audiences this summer.”
The 1980s-set plot follows Denise – played by Michelle – an aspiring actress who has an obsessive relationship with Marilyn Monroe.
Denise heads to Hollywood, hoping to live up to the icon’s fame and beauty.
But she is forced to confront the painful truth of unfulfilled dreams and desires.
Inspired by Michelle’s real-life encounter with a woman named Motorhome Marilyn, the play explores themes such as aging and failed dreams.