Michelle Collins

Michelle Collins
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Name	Michelle Collins
Birth date	28 May 1962
Birth place	Hackney, London, England
Occupation	Actress, television presenter
Years active	1983–present
Known for	Cindy Beale in EastEnders, Stella Price in Coronation Street

Michelle Collins is an English actress and television presenter, best known for her long-running roles in two of the United Kingdom's most popular soap operas. She first achieved widespread fame playing Cindy Beale on the BBC's flagship programme EastEnders throughout the 1990s, later joining the cast of ITV's rival series Coronation Street as Stella Price. Her career has also encompassed significant work in theatre, film, and as a presenter on programmes such as This Morning.

Early life and education

Born in Hackney, London, she attended the Anna Scher Theatre school in Islington, an institution known for launching the careers of numerous British actors. Her early interest in performance was nurtured there, leading to her first professional engagements. Before pursuing acting full-time, she worked in retail at the famous Kensington Market and as a clapper loader in the film industry.

Career

Her breakthrough came in 1988 when she was cast as Cindy Beale in EastEnders, a role she played until 1998 and briefly reprised in 2023. The character was central to major storylines including a controversial plot involving attempted murder and extramarital affairs. Following her departure from Albert Square, she pursued a diverse career, starring in dramas like Sunburn and Two Thousand Acres of Sky. In 2011, she joined the cast of Coronation Street, playing the landlady of the Rovers Return Inn for three years. Beyond serial drama, she has presented for ITV and BBC One, and competed on reality shows such as Strictly Come Dancing.

Filmography

Her screen work includes roles in television series such as Rockliffe's Babies, The Bill, and Doctor Who, where she appeared in an episode alongside David Tennant. Notable film appearances include The Illustrated Mum and The Wedding Video. She has also featured in made-for-television movies like The Last Detective and guest-starred in popular series including Waterloo Road and Death in Paradise.

Stage work

She has an extensive theatre career, having performed in major productions across the United Kingdom. Her stage credits include playing Mistress Page in The Royal Shakespeare Company's production of The Merry Wives of Windsor at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. She has also starred in touring productions of Calendar Girls and The Vagina Monologues, and performed in plays at renowned venues like the Birmingham Repertory Theatre and the Chichester Festival Theatre.

Personal life

She has one daughter, born in 1995. She has been an active supporter of various charities, including Stonewall and Breast Cancer Now, and has spoken publicly about her own experiences with health issues. She resides in London and has been vocal on political issues, supporting the Labour Party and advocating for the arts.

Awards and nominations

Her performance in EastEnders earned her a nomination for National Television Award for Most Popular Actress in 1997. She has also received recognition for her stage work, including critical acclaim for her role in The Murder Game at the King's Head Theatre. In 2023, her return to EastEnders was celebrated with significant media attention and positive reviews from publications like The Guardian and Radio Times. Category:1962 births Category:English television actresses Category:English stage actresses