Ex soap star Susan Tully, known for her portrayal of Michelle Fowler in EastEnders, has undergone a remarkable transformation since leaving the show in 1995.

Now 57, she sports a sleek bob haircut, which is a big change from Michelle’s signature shoulder-length curls. Fans were stunned by how different Susan looked in a recent photo where she was smiling in a white T-shirt and black pinafore dress, standing next to Michelle Collins, who played Cindy Beale in EastEnders. During her time as Michelle, Susan was part of many dramatic storylines, with the most memorable being when Michelle became pregnant at 16 by ‘Dirty Den’ Watts.

Den, of course, was the adoptive father of Michelle’s best friend, Sharon Mitchell. After leaving the square in 1995, Michelle returned to Walford in 2016, but Susan decided not to reprise her role, with Jenna Russell taking over the part for just over a year. The former Grange Hill star has since retired from acting and now works behind the camera.

Susan Tully, known for her portrayal of Michelle Fowler in EastEnders, has undergone a remarkable transformation since leaving the show in 1995 ( 

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@amevs5/Instagram)

Susan filmed a scene for her character Michelle’s wedding on the soap over two decades ago ( 

Image:

Getty Images)

After leaving EastEnders, Susan transitioned into directing, working on shows such as Silent Witness, Stella, Secret Diary of a Call Girl, Strike, and Line of Duty. She also directed two episodes of the BBC police drama Line of Duty and the ITV thriller Too Close. Despite her achievements behind the camera, fans are still eager to see her reprise her iconic role as Martin’s sister Michelle.

However, the director has made it clear she has no plans to return to the soap. When it came to bringing Michelle back in 2016, then executive director Sean O’Connor confirmed Susan gave them her blessing to move on without her.

“Of course if you’re considering bringing back Michelle Fowler you’d have to consider talking to Susan Tully about it,” he explained. “But she is now a well-respected, hugely experienced TV director. Her acting career is part of her past, really a closed door for her.”