Zoe Slater about to fall from view completely:

EastEnders actor Michelle Ryan is planning to quit the soap next year to pursue a modelling career, The Sun reports today.

The star, who has played Zoe Slater for four years, will also try to land Hollywood film roles with new agents Peters Fraser and Dunlop.

"She plans to leave EastEnders towards the end of next year," a friend told the newspaper. "Michelle has been in the show since she left school and feels like she needs to spread her wings. Producers will be sad to see her go - she is one of the most popular characters."

Her new agents have high hopes for their newest signing. "They want to turn her into the next Keira Knightley," the source added. "She has already had quite a few offers, but has had to turn a lot down because of her commitment to EastEnders."