Former EastEnders star Michelle Ryan has paid tribute to her grandmother following her death.
The star, best known for her role as Zoe Slater, posted a touching message on her Instagram earlier today, confirming the death of her beloved relative.
Sharing a number of pictures of her grandmother from over the years, Michelle wrote alongside: ‘It is with great sadness that I share my grandmother passed away today early this morning.
‘I got the feeling that I had to go and see her early yesterday morning, as ever timing is everything, as I got to say goodbye to her even though she couldn’t respond and played her some of her favourite music. Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald.
She added: ‘She reached a grand old age and lived for her family especially her grandchildren. She even met many of her great grandchildren! So many wonderful childhood memories. Rest in peace Doreen.’
Michelle received plenty of kind comments from her followers, writing how sorry they are for her loss.
This user of Instagram said: ‘I’m so very sorry to hear about your grandmother! What a beautiful lady she was. Condolences to you and all of you and your family at this time! Take care.’
Another penned: ‘Sorry for yours and your families loss! Sending virtual hugs. May she rest in peace.’
Michelle originally played the character of Zoe in the BBC soap between 2000 and 2005, but has not been seen on screen since.
Back in 2001, it was famously revealed that Zoe’s sister Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) was actually her mother in an episode watched by 19 million viewers.
The star recently hinted she was ready for a Walford comeback.
After reuniting with her on-screen aunt Kasey Ainsworth, who played Little Mo, she reflected on some EastEnders memories as she shared a picture on Instagram.
When one fan in the comments asked if she would consider a return, she said: ‘Never say never!’.
She also said: ‘That’s for the producers to decide,’ in response to a comment that stated her return would be ‘epic’.
