Michelle Fowler

Michelle Fowler
Jenna Russell as Michelle Fowler (2016)
EastEnders character
Portrayed by	Susan Tully (1985–1995) Jenna Russell (2016–)
Duration	1985–1995, 2016–
First appearance	Episode 1 19 February 1985
Created by	Tony Holland
Introduced by	Julia Smith (1985) Sean O'Connor (2016)
Classification	Present; regular
Profile
Other names	Michelle Holloway
Occupation	Receptionist Barmaid Housing officer Researcher Teacher/Tutor
Susan Tully as Michelle Fowler (1994)
Family Beale Father Arthur Fowler Mother Pauline Fowler Brothers Mark Fowler Martin Fowler Husband Lofty Holloway (1986–1988) Tim (off–screen) Sons Mark Fowler Daughters Vicki Fowler Grandfathers Albert Beale Grandmothers Lou Beale Uncles Pete Beale Kenny Beale Aunts Maggie Flaherty Nieces Rebecca Fowler First cousins David Wicks Ian Beale Elizabeth Beale

Michelle Fowler (also Holloway) is a fictional character from the BBC soap opera EastEnders, played by Susan Tully from the first episode in 1985 until the character's departure in 1995. In December 2016, it was announced Michelle would be returning to the show after 21 years, with actress Jenna Russell taking over the role making her first appearance on 24 December 2016. In her first stint Michelle made some huge mistakes during her time in Albert Square mainly through having a habit of choosing the wrong men and her stubborn nature meant that she rarely accepted help or listened to good advice. Being determined and outspoken, she has never been afraid to defend herself or her beliefs. Since the recast to Russell in 2016, Michelle's storylines have revolved around her having an underage relationship with Preston Cooper (Martin Anzor), a love triangle with her niece Bex Fowler (Jasmine Armfield) and crashing her car into the local chip shop.

Initially, Michelle competes with her best friend Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) for the affections of Kelvin Carpenter (Paul J. Medford), but the romance quickly fizzles out. When she is 16, Michelle discovers she is pregnant. Despite pressure from her family, Michelle refuses to name the father or have an abortion, adamant that she is keeping her baby. Speculation persists as to the identity of the father of Michelle's baby and he is eventually revealed as Den Watts (Leslie Grantham), Sharon's 39-year-old adoptive father. Michelle turned to Den for sympathy during a difficult time and they had a one-night stand. At a nearby canal, away from the prying eyes of Walford, Den promises to provide financial support for his child and keep its paternity a secret.