EastEnders’ Michelle Collins teases ‘classic Christmas episode’ as Cindy’s affair is revealed

As a movie reviewer with a penchant for soaps and a soft spot for EastEnders, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia as I delve into this year’s Christmas episode. With Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) at the heart of the drama, it feels like we’re stepping back in time to the days of Sharongate. The sordid affair with Junior Knight (Micah Balfour), the son of her former husband George (Colin Salmon), promises nothing less than chaos, much like Cindy herself.

This year’s EastEnders Christmas episode will heavily feature the character Cindy Beale, played by Michelle Collins. So, we can anticipate that it will bring about quite a bit of turmoil and excitement.

Cindy, who always seems to find trouble, has been secretly involved romantically with Micah Balfour, also known as Junior Knight, the offspring of her ex-husband, Colin Salmon.

Despite villainous attempts to keep her dirty secret under wraps, Cindy’s extracurricular activities will be revealed in classic style – via a recording in The Queen Vic, à la Sharongate back in 1994!

Additionally, she disclosed her ideal dinner party attendees from the annals of EastEnders and expressed that this upcoming Christmas Day promises to be an emotionally charged, poignant event.

To discover how Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt) and George respond to Cindy and Junior’s affair, you’ll have to stay tuned, but for now, take pleasure in reading the complete conversation with Collins that we’ve provided below.

How does it feel to be involved in this year’s Christmas storyline?

I’m deeply gratified to be contributing to the Christmas plotline as it’s become a cherished custom for me – and many others – to tune into EastEnders on Christmas Day. Each year, it delivers an unforgettable episode, and last year was no exception. This year’s installment promises to be another EastEnders classic, so I’m thrilled to be participating in it.

How did you react when Chris Clenshaw initially told you about Cindy’s affair storyline?

It’s peculiar since upon my return, folks would repeatedly ask, “When will Cindy misbehave again?” It seems their perception of Cindy is that she’s perpetually mischievous, always ready for more trouble, much like the saying, “You can’t change a leopard’s spots.

As a performer, I can confidently say that embodying a character as unpredictable as Cindy has always been an aspiration. The scripts never fail to leave me guessing what she’ll do next, often causing me to exclaim, “Well, I didn’t see that coming!” [Laughs] So, it came as no surprise when I learned about her affair.

As a movie enthusiast, I can share that my anticipation was high for the unfolding of the shocking truth in “The Vic.” Filming those intense scenes, however, was a different story altogether. It felt like diving into an emotional abyss, where every take brought forth fresh waves of raw intensity and suspense.

What makes individuals often prefer portraying villains in pantomime? It’s because they can be a tad more entertaining! As an actress playing Cinderella, I experience a rollercoaster of emotions, so it’s essential to find joy amidst the turmoil. She always presents a captivating challenge.

Is there any chance for Cindy to make amends, or do you believe her past actions have pushed things too far and made it impossible for redemption?

As a devoted admirer, I must say that portraying this character is quite challenging because she’s deeply self-destructive and seemingly incapable of switching off. Yet, I firmly believe that for her to seem authentic, she needs a path towards redemption. After all, no one is flawless.

How will you be spending your Christmas?

Cindy really enjoys celebrating Christmas at home, but afterwards she usually takes a short trip. Each Christmas seems to be unique compared to the last. This year, since it’s been quite busy for her, Cindy plans on taking some time off to relax.

What EastEnders character (past or present) would you invite to your Christmas dinner and why?

I’d enjoy having lunch with Dot Cotton, portrayed by June Brown, and Pauline Fowler, played by Wendy Richards. The conversation with them would be lively, entertaining, and filled with humor. I have a soft spot for these characters, and I might also include Mike Reid in the gathering. He’s known for his comedic timing as well as his singing abilities.

Besides David Essex, I’d be thrilled if he could join us for our Christmas lunch. Growing up, I was an ardent admirer of his work and never had the opportunity to collaborate with him. Unfortunately, he appeared on EastEnders when I wasn’t part of the show, which made me quite frustrated that I missed out on working with such a legend. It would be fantastic if some of these iconic figures could grace our holiday gathering.

What is your favourite festive memory on set?

It’s challenging to express my feelings precisely, given all that I have experienced. However, I must admit that Christmas on EastEnders holds a special place in my heart. There’s an enchanting, peaceful quality about the Square at night during this time that evokes a multitude of emotions. Recently, while filming there during a night shoot, I found it surprisingly romantic.

Reminds me of my past, working there as a young lady, the Square holds many memories for me. There’s an enchanting quality about celebrating Christmas in Albert Square. It feels like we’re having two Christmases – one in Albert Square, and another that belongs to us.

In three words, tell us what the viewers can expect from this year’s Christmas Day episode.

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating experience as I describe this as intense, impactful, and emotionally stirring. Truly a timeless episode of EastEnders. By the way, apologies if that’s too much at once – I just got carried away with my enthusiasm!” [Laughs]

2024-12-10 04:38

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